Paradeep, Nov 1: The 3rd Odisha State Blind & Para Judo Championship 2026-27 was inaugurated at MPIS in Paradeep, Jagatsinghpur district, on Sunday, bringing together 250 participants from 21 districts across Odisha.

Organised by the State Blind & Para Judo Association of Odisha (SBPJAO), the championship features selection trials in the sub-junior, youth, junior and senior categories for the upcoming National Para Judo Championship 2026-27.

Industries, skill development and technical education minister Sampad Charan Swain inaugurated the event as the chief guest. A key highlight of the opening ceremony was the unveiling of the association's official mascot, 'Veer Kalinga', by the minister.

The association also felicitated several distinguished para-sport achievers, including Olympians, international medal winners and Odisha's first-ever para judo medalist, in recognition of their contributions and achievements in sports.

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The inaugural ceremony was attended by SBPJAO President Subrajit Moharana, Secretary Sunil Pradhan, President Kamala Kant Rath, Debamrut Sahoo of the Para Sports Association of Odisha, Paradeep Municipality Chairman Basant Biswal and CEO and State Partner Shweta Agarwal.

Principals of various schools, coaches, officials and sports enthusiasts were also present at the event. The Secretary General of SBPJAO expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, participants and volunteers for their support in organising the championship.