A new chapter for Para Sports begins

The Bangladesh government is set to launch "Notun Kuri Para Sports" this September, a nationwide talent-hunt initiative aimed at scouting and nurturing athletic talent among individuals with special needs.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Asian Para Games Training Camp at Dhaka’s National Stadium on Thursday, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque announced that the hunt will cover all 64 districts to ensure decentralised development.

"We do not want activities to be centred solely around Dhaka," Aminul stated. "Our goal is to discover talented children across every district and prepare them to represent Bangladesh at the Asian Para Games and the Paralympics."

To strengthen athlete welfare, the government plans to expand its monthly sports allowance scheme from 300 to 500 athletes within the next month, prioritizing international medal winners.

Urging society to break long-standing stigmas, Aminul added, "The child whom a family hides out of shame could one day bring home a medal for Bangladesh. It is time for pride, not embarrassment."

The minister also revealed long-term plans to transform Dhaka National Stadium into a comprehensive sports hub and construct a dedicated modern sports complex tailored for para-athletes.