New Delhi: To aid the commute of four para-athletes belonging to India’s Tokyo Paralympics contingent, accessibility vans were provided by Svayam, a non-profit organisation that promotes accessibility for the differently abled.
Javelin throwers Ajeet Singh, Sandeep and Sumit Antil, as well as high jumper Ram Pal were the recipients of the commuting aid, Svayam said Tuesday.
The four are part of a 54-member contingent of para-athletes taking part in nine para-sports at the Tokyo Paralympics, a record high, said the organisation, which is also the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI)’s accessibility partner.
To promote the event, Svayam announced the launch of the #AbJunoonJitega social media campaign, and stated its aim of “highlighting the journey of the Paralympians that cheers and celebrates them throughout the games”.
The press release further quoted statements from company founder Sminu Jindal and PCI President Deepa Malik, both of whom expressed their delight over the new partnership.
“We look forward to helping our Paralympians travel from one place to another with dignity through better accessibility,” said Svayam founder Sminu Jindal.
“We believe that the Paralympic Committee of India and Svayam will have a great partnership ahead and not only create awareness but also new benchmarks of universal access,” PCI President Deepa Malik said.
Svayam further elaborated on its accessibility work for India’s participating para-athletes upon their return from the Games, which includes increasing accessibility and comfort for the athletes at The Ashok Hotel, and “sensitisation training” of the staff at the Delhi airport.
Svayam was established in 2000 as part of the Sminu Jindal Charitable Trust and focuses on creating a “barrier-free world for all”.