The 3rd ONGC Para Games 2019 was inaugurated by Minister of State, Cooperation, Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities (Independent Charge) Transport (State Minister), Government of Gujarat Mr Ishwarsinh Patel on 3 December 2019 at Sports Authority of India Centre, Gandhinagar. Also present during the inauguration were ONGC CMD Mr Shashi Shanker, Director (Onshore) Mr S K Moitra, Director (HR) Dr Alka Mittal and CVO Mr R C Joshi.

Senior Officials from State Government, Officers from ONGC, SAI officials and 220 Para Athletes (190 men and 30 women) from different Oil PSUs were present in large numbers in the glittering inaugural function, which was also attended by more than 400 students from National Association of Blind, Apang Manav Mandal, Deaf & Mute Society, Skill development Institute, Kendriya Vidyalaya and Udgam School.

Addressing the gathering, CMD Mr Shashi Shanker shared that ONGC is hosting this 3rd ONGC Para Games – 2019 for Employees with Disabilities from different Oil PSUs and also involving the students from special schools of Gujarat state, to promote culture of sports and living by the Theme of the Games i.e. Fostering inclusiveness. Mr Shanker also added that 3 December is also special as this day is being celebrated across the world as “International Disability Day”, where we all pledge to protect and promote all sections of the society.

ONGC CMD, Directors, Ministers and Gujarat Minister cheering the para athletes

Addressing the huge gathering, MoS Government of Gujarat Mr Patel complimented ONGC for organizing such an initiative for showcasing the qualities of differently-abled employees of all Oil PSUs. He emphasized on the leading role taken by ONGC in providing the best of facilities and opportunities to the PWDs and the energy major’s commitment to adhere to the guidelines of the Government.