27 February,2026 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya Iyer
Mayor Harshali Chaudhary plays carrom with one of the participants at Phadke Maidan in Kalyan. PIC/KDMC
Emphasising the need to create more opportunities for children with disabilities, Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) Mayor Harshali Chaudhary on Friday said parents should actively encourage their kids to participate in various competitions to help build confidence and secure a brighter future.
She was speaking at the inauguration of a sports competition for participants with disabilities organised by KDMC's Social Welfare Department at Phadke Maidan in Kalyan West.
Addressing the gathering, the mayor said sports play an important role in empowerment and confidence-building.
"For me, no one is disabled. They are capable and normal citizens," she said, while praising the participants.
Municipal Commissioner Abhinav Goyal said the civic body would continue to organise such activities to support and empower differently-abled individuals. He described sports competitions as a form of therapy that helps in social inclusion and personality development.
The event saw participation in competitions including carrom, chess, shot put, wheelchair racing, shooting, 100-metre races for the deaf and mute, and ball-throwing games for the physically challenged.
According to officials, the event witnessed a large turnout of participants, who demonstrated enthusiasm and determination throughout the competitions.
Municipal Secretary Kishore Shelke, Deputy Commissioner (Social Welfare) Kanchan Gaikwad, Social Development Officer Prashant Gavankar, and other civic officials were present for the event.
Officials said such initiatives aim to boost confidence among differently-abled individuals and promote inclusivity within the community.
