Patna: Bihar is set to become the first Indian state to establish a dedicated residential sports school for para-athletes, a move hailed as a transformative step in inclusive sports infrastructure. The announcement was made by Ravindra Shankar, Director General of the Bihar State Sports Authority, who described the project as a “historic initiative” to empower para-athletes with state-of-the-art facilities, including training, accommodation, education, and rehabilitation in an accessible environment. The establishment is expected to play a crucial role in preparing athletes for international events such as the Asian Para Games, World Championships, and the Paralympics. “Despite minimal infrastructure, athletes from Bihar have already made their mark at the national and international level,” Shankar said, citing names like Pramod Bhagat (para-badminton), Sharad Kumar, and Shailesh Kumar (para-athletics) as examples of outstanding talent emerging from the state.
Eklavya Sports School to Reopen in July
In a parallel development, the Eklavya Residential Sports School, a separate state-run institution, will be reorganized and reopened this July under the Chief Minister Sports Development Scheme. The school will cater to both boys and girls across 18 different sporting disciplines and has already appointed qualified coaches for its upcoming intake.
Selection trials for the school will begin later this month, targeting children aged 11 to 14. Age verification will be the primary eligibility criterion.
