Asian Para Athletics Games: Labour Minister Santosh Lad Felicitates Para-Athlete Radha Venkatesh, Assures Support
By Anusha SM | Bangalore Mail
Bengaluru, October 08
Karnataka Labour Minister Santosh Lad felicitated visually impaired international para-athlete Radha Venkatesh on Thursday, congratulating her on her selection for the upcoming Asian Para Athletics Games in Japan, scheduled to begin on October 17.
Radha, who serves as an official in the Karnataka Labour Department, visited the Minister’s residence, where she was honored for her outstanding achievements in track and field.
Minister Assures Government Support
Commending her dedication, Minister Santosh Lad highlighted her journey of overcoming financial hardships and physical impairment.
“It brings us immense pride that an official from our own department is representing India on an international platform,” Lad said. “Radha’s passion for life and resilience in overcoming poverty and physical challenges serve as an inspiration to everyone. The Karnataka government and the Labour Department will extend all necessary assistance and support to her.”
Wishing her success, the Minister added, “On behalf of the government and the people of Karnataka, I congratulate her. We hope she returns home with a gold medal and brings glory to the state and the nation.”
Expressing Gratitude
Expressing her gratitude to the state government and Minister Santosh Lad, Radha stated that such encouragement boosts the morale of athletes.
“I am deeply honored by the Minister’s recognition. This support motivates me to perform better. I hope the government continues to encourage all athletes in a similar manner,” Radha said.
A Stellar Track Record
Hailing from Bommasamudra village in Challakere taluk, Chitradurga district, Radha Venkatesh competes in the T12 category for visually impaired athletes, specializing in the 400m and 1500m track events.
Her notable achievements include:
Asian Para Games 2018 (Indonesia): Silver medal in the women’s 1500m event.
World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025 (New Delhi): Gold medal in the T12 1500m event with a timing of 5:15.57.
7th Indian Open Para Athletics 2025: Silver medal alongside her guide runner, Govind.
8th Indian Open International Para Athletics 2026 (Bengaluru): Silver medal in the 1500m event held at Kanteerava Stadium.
Despite severe vision impairment and economic struggles, Radha has consistently maintained top rankings at the Asian and global levels, continuing to inspire young athletes across the country.
