Union Minister Felicitates Indian PD Cricket Team for Winning Champions Trophy 2025

New Delhi: Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, today honored the Indian Physical Disability (PD) Cricket Team for their remarkable victory in the PD Champions Trophy 2025 held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The team showcased outstanding resilience and skill, defeating England in the final to claim the prestigious title.

Supported by the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) and accessibility organization Svayam, the Indian PD Cricket Team was felicitated at the Sports Authority of India.

In his address, Dr. Mandaviya lauded the team’s exceptional achievement and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting athletes with disabilities. Reflecting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of inclusivity in sports, he stated, “ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured commitment towards ‘divyang’ athletes. Your victory is a testament to the fact that being ‘divyang’ does not limit your ability to make the nation proud. Winning 5 out of 6 matches, including against teams like England, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, showcases your indomitable spirit.”

The journey to forming the winning squad was an intensive process. Over 450 cricketers from 28 states participated in the Nationals in Udaipur. From there, 56 players advanced to the Challenger Trophy in Jaipur, and finally, 17 were selected to represent India in the international tournament.

Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the growing achievements of specially-abled athletes, from their success in the Paris Paralympics to this latest triumph. “Our ‘divyang’ athletes are giving us numerous reasons to feel proud. Their success motivates the government to enhance support for inclusive sports. Your achievements should inspire more youth across platforms,” he said.

The event was attended by the entire team, along with coaches, DCCI General Secretary Ravikant Chauhan, Svayam Founder-Chairperson Sminu Jindal, and officials from the Sports Ministry.