Uttar Pradesh athletes shone at the Paris Paralympics 2024, prompting BL Agro Industries Ltd. to announce a five-year support program. This initiative, part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), aims to empower National Sports Awards 2024 winners.
The awards will be presented by the President of India on January 17, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognising outstanding contributions to Indian sports.

Honourees include Mr Praveen Kumar for Para-Athletics in Men's High Jump, who will receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024. Additionally, Ms Preeti Pal and Ms Simran for Women's 100m & 200m, along with Mr Ajeet Singh for Men's Javelin Throw, will each be awarded the Arjuna Award 2024.
BL Agro's commitment includes financial aid for advanced training programs and access to top-tier coaching facilities. They aim to provide cutting-edge sports equipment and international exposure for these athletes. This support ensures their holistic development and sustained excellence in their respective fields.
Ashish Khandelwal, Managing Director of BL Agro and patron of U.P. Para Sports Association, expressed admiration for the para-athletes' determination. "The grit and determination displayed by our para-athletes is truly inspiring," he stated. "They made us, and India, proud."
The initiative received praise from sports community leaders like Dr. Deepa Malik, Chairman of the U.P. Para Sports Association. She remarked that recognition is crucial but ongoing support transforms potential into lasting impact. "BL Agro’s commitment would be a game-changer for Indian para-sports," she noted.
BL Agro's vision extends beyond immediate support; it includes mentorship opportunities and scholarships for upcoming para-athletes. This effort solidifies their role in fostering a thriving sports culture in India.
The BL Agro Group is based in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, and operates across various sectors including food products and agri-tech. Originally a mustard trading business, BL Agro Industries Ltd., now a major FMCG company, boasts one of India's largest networks for edible oils under brands like Bail Kolhu and Nourish.
The group also includes LeadsConnect, an agri-technology firm focusing on data analysis and sustainable agri-business ecosystems. Leads NexTech offers EarthTech Analytics with human-centric solutions through next-gen technologies. B.L. Kamdhenu Farms Ltd pioneers dairy innovation with embryo technology and a zero-waste milk value chain.