New Delhi: The Second Edition of the Inclusion Conclave, organized by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India, was inaugurated today by Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. The event, held in New Delhi, also saw the presence of Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Nikhil Khadse.
In his keynote address, Dr. Mandaviya lauded the strides India has made in sports under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the government’s commitment to providing quality training, developing inclusive infrastructure, and nurturing talent from grassroots levels. “Our focus is on ensuring that every individual, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to excel and contribute to India’s sporting success,” he stated.
Dr. Mandaviya also highlighted the country’s dedication to promoting sports among Divyang sportspersons and strengthening anti-doping efforts through international cooperation and enhanced capacities. A significant moment of the conclave was the release of the “NADA India’s Anti-Doping Guide” in Braille script, a step toward breaking barriers in the anti-doping landscape.
In her address, Raksha Nikhil Khadse reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring that every individual, irrespective of gender, age, or ability, has the opportunity to participate and excel in sports. She emphasized the country’s dedication to ethical practices and anti-doping efforts.
The conclave also featured remarks from Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, and Dr. Mayumi YaYa Yamamoto, Director of the Asia/Oceania Office at WADA, who joined the event virtually. Other notable attendees included UNESCO COP9 Bureau Chairperson Matar Bâ and Neil Murrell, Chairperson of the UNESCO Anti-Doping Convention’s Fund Approval Committee.
The event included engaging panel discussions on legal frameworks, technology, and sports values, as well as reflections from para-athletes. An inclusive anti-doping workshop provided insights into shaping future inclusion in anti-doping.