10 Questions
TT: What are your objectives?
SSS: SOJ is an affiliate unit of Special Olympics Bharat (SOB) that’s involved in promoting sports among the intellectually impaired
How many districts have you covered so far?
We are in 17 of the 24 districts. Efforts are on to expand further
How?
We are working in tandem with Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), which provides free education to village boys and girls, including the intellectually impaired. We are trying to involve the intellectually impaired in sports. Their IQ levels can be improved through sports
Does SOJ have the necessary expertise?
We have produced 88 master trainers who have undergone a 10-day course at Lakshmi Bai National University of Physical Education (Gwalior). We have plans to send SSA resource teachers to Gwalior, too
What are the IQ levels of your wards?
Between 40-50 when 60 is considered normal
How many wards are under you?
We have 37,718 intellectually impaired people registered with us. Many of our wards have successfully joined the social mainstream
Examples?
Anchal Gaurav is now a games teacher at School of Hope in Bistupur (Jamshedpur). Sanjeev Sharma
recently got married and is actively involved in managing his family business. Harpal Singh is also employed at a call centre
Major challenges?
Convincing parents is a huge task. SOB has already launched a family forum programme under which we talk to parents to allow their wards to join sports activities. Parents of girls are more difficult to convince because of the social stigma attached to their
disability
What about funds?
SOB funds state and national events. The ministry of youth affairs and sports funds National Games for Persons with Disabilities and also gives cash awards to medal winners in off-shore competitions. Six athletes of SOJ, who claimed medals at last year’s Los Angeles World Summer Games, received awards. We also have corporate support
How much does the state government contribute?
Not much. Even NGOs aren’t active on this front.
