We want to showcase Bangladesh to the world through Para Sports: Dr Maruf 

Newly elected Secretary General of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Bangladesh, Dr Maruf Ahmed Mridul, has pledged to build a stronger foundation for para sports, expressing his ambition to see Bangladesh emerge as a respected force on the global stage through the achievements of its para athletes.

Speaking after assuming office, Dr Maruf said the newly elected committee, led by President Nasirul Islam, Joint Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, would focus on long-term development rather than short-term success. He said, "We want to present Bangladesh to the world through para sports. Our priority is to identify talented athletes from every corner of the country, nurture them through scientific training and create an environment where they can flourish."

Bangladesh's para athletes have already demonstrated their potential by winning three gold and two bronze medals at the Asian Youth Para Games, while also claiming a bronze medal at an international para badminton tournament in Japan. Dr Maruf believes these achievements provide a solid platform for even greater success.

With the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games on the horizon, the new Secretary General stressed the importance of quality coaching, modern training facilities and adequate equipment to ensure athletes perform to the best of their abilities. He also underscored the need for regular national camps and increased exposure to international competition.

However, he identified infrastructure as the biggest hurdle facing the country's para sports movement. "A dedicated para sports complex is now essential. Without our own venue, training, practice and competitions remain dependent on the availability of other facilities," he noted.

Calling for support from the government, sporting bodies and the corporate sector, Dr Maruf said the collective effort of all stakeholders would be crucial in helping Bangladesh's para athletes carry the national flag with pride on the international stage, from the Asian Para Games to the Paralympic Games.