K’taka govt congratulates Soumya, Radha Venkatesh on Asian Para Games medals
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government congratulated athletes Soumya and Radha Venkatesh for winning gold and silver medals, respectively, in the women’s 1500m T12/T13 event at the Asian Para Games 2026 in Japan, with Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara praising their determination and sporting excellence.
Parameshwara, who holds the Revenue, Youth Empowerment and Sports portfolios, congratulated Soumya on winning the gold medal with an impressive time of 5:12.39. The 16-year-old athlete from Chamarajanagar has brought pride to Karnataka and the country through her achievement.
Having lost both her parents, Soumya’s journey from the Deepa Academy School for the Blind to the top of the Asian podium is a story of courage, determination and perseverance, he said, adding that her achievement would inspire aspiring athletes across the country.
Parameshwara also congratulated Soumya’s guide runner, Bharath Kumar, and Indian Athletic Academy coaches Vikram, Roshan, Bharath and Yogesh for their dedicated guidance and support.
He also congratulated Radha Venkatesh, who clinched the silver medal in the same event with a time of 5:30.90. Having previously won medals at the 2018 Asian Para Games, Radha has continued to bring pride to Karnataka and India through her sporting achievements.
Radha is among the 11 accomplished sportspersons appointed by the Karnataka government in recognition of their sporting excellence. She currently serves as a Labour Officer in the State Labour Department.
Parameshwara said her appointment reflected the government’s commitment to recognising medal-winning athletes and providing them with career opportunities through special recruitment provisions.
He commended Radha for her determination and perseverance and appreciated the invaluable support of her guide runner, Govind Solanki.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the state government remained committed to recognising sporting excellence, nurturing young talent and providing athletes with opportunities to build a secure and promising future. He wished both athletes greater success in their future endeavours.