Kochi: Inclusive sports took centre stage at the Kerala State School Sports Meet this year, with more than 1,600 athletes from 14 districts participating in the 'Inclusive Sports' category for students with special needs.

This category, created specifically for students with special needs, hosted various competitions, such as the 100-meter race for the visually impaired, a mixed 4x100-meter relay, standing broad jump, standing throw, handball, and mixed badminton.

The Inclusive Sports competitions concluded on Tuesday, with Thiruvananthapuram claiming the overall championship title. Palakkad won second place, and Kozhikode secured third place.

The Ernakulam District Collector NSK Umesh awarded the trophies to the winners, calling the accomplishments of these athletes an inspiration for everyone.

"The brilliant achievements of children with special needs are an inspiration to all," he said.

This year marks the first time that an inclusive category has been introduced in the Kerala State School Sports Meet. The competitions followed guidelines from the  Inclusive Sports Manual. Before the event, children across the state also received district-level training to help prepare for the competitions.

Olympics-Inspired format 
The sports meet, which officially began on November 4, follows an Olympics-inspired format. Education Minister V Sivankutty inaugurated the event, while former Indian hockey captain and Olympic medalist PR Sreejesh joined as the brand ambassador. Actor Mammootty graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest.

Events and special honours
Throughout the event, students are competing in athletics, inclusive athletics, badminton, football, and throwball. Along with medals and certificates for the victors, the district that accumulates the most points will receive the coveted Ever Rolling Trophy named after the Chief Minister. In a nod to Olympic traditions, winners will also be presented with olive leaf crowns, symbolising their achievement and excellence.