Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Goa, organised the Para Civil Services Table Tennis Tournament 2026 as part of the State Civil Services Games.
The Civil Services Games are held annually at the state level, with winners earning the opportunity to represent Goa at the National Civil Services Tournament. The initiative aims to promote physical fitness, coordination, sportsmanship and camaraderie among Government employees.
The Para Table Tennis Tournament witnessed participation from five Government employees representing various departments across Goa. The competition was conducted in two categories – Wheelchair and Standing.
In the Wheelchair Category, Vishant Nagvekar of the Forest Department delivered an outstanding performance to clinch the title, defeating Patrick D’Souza of the Directorate of Official Language in the final with a convincing score of 11-1, 11-0.
In the Standing Category, Chetan Salgaonkar of BDO Mapusa, Bardez emerged champion after defeating Fleev Andrade of Goa Medical College by 11-4, 11-7 in the final. Chandrakant Gaude of ITI Sattari secured the third position.
The successful conduct of the tournament once again highlighted Goa’s commitment towards creating opportunities for Government employees with disabilities to participate in competitive sports and demonstrate their abilities at the state level.
Participants emphasised that every Government Department should actively encourage its employees with disabilities to take part in the Para Civil Services Games in larger numbers. Departments should also provide necessary support, including facilitating mobility and accessibility requirements wherever possible, to enable greater participation.
Such initiatives not only improve physical health but also contribute significantly to mental well-being, self-confidence, social inclusion and overall quality of life. Participation in sports further enhances communication skills, teamwork, leadership qualities and knowledge through interaction and exchange of experiences with colleagues from different Government Departments.
More such Para Civil Services events, including Badminton, Carrom, and Chess, are scheduled to be held in the coming weeks. The Para Civil Services Games continue to provide a valuable platform for Government employees with disabilities to showcase their talents, remain physically active and represent their departments with pride.
Goa continues to lead the way in promoting inclusive sports and remains the only state in the country to conduct dedicated Para events under the Civil Services Games for Government employees with disabilities, stated a press release.
