Bhubaneswar: The 24th National Para Athletics Championship 2026 was successfully inaugurated today at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, in the esteemed presence of distinguished dignitaries from the Government of Odisha and the para sports fraternity.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by  Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Sports & Youth Services, Government of Odisha;  Babu Singh, MLA, Bhubaneswar Ekamra; Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary to Government of Odisha; Padma Bhusan & Khel Ratna awardee  Devendra Jhajharia, President, Paralympic Committee of India (PCI); Bijay Kumar Swain, Additional Secretary, Ashok Kumar Panda Additional Secretary Department of Sports & Youth Services; and Kamala Kanta Rath, President, Para Sports Association of Odisha.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted the Government of Odisha’s vision to develop sports infrastructure across every block of the state, ensuring that all upcoming stadiums are Para Sports Friendly, on par with the world-class facilities at Kalinga Stadium.

Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India, expressed his admiration for the exceptional infrastructure at Kalinga Stadium, stating that it stands comparable to some of the best stadiums in Asia and across the globe. He emphasized that Bhubaneswar has the potential to host international para sports events, given its inclusive and athlete-friendly environment. He also extended his sincere gratitude to the Government of Odisha, especially the Department of Sports & Youth Services, for their unwavering support in organizing the championship.

Senior officials from the Paralympic Committee of India, the Department of Sports & Youth Services, and members of the Para Sports Association of Odisha were also present on the occasion.

The championship will witness participation from over 1460 para athletes representing 28 states across India, making it one of the largest para sporting events in the country.