Ladakh to Host World's First High-Altitude Para Sports Center

The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF) to establish India's first-ever high-altitude para sports center in Leh, Ladakh. The state-of-the-art facility aims to enhance the skills and confidence of athletes ahead of the 2028 Paralympics.

According to Advocate Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of LAHDC, this historic development is a testament to India's growing para-sports talent, which has already won 29 medals in the recent International competitions. "It's a proud moment for us, and we're excited to have Leh as part of this initiative," said Gyalson.

Under the MoU, the Aditya Mehta Foundation will identify 15 children with special needs from the Ladakh-Ladakh UT region who will undergo screening, counseling, and training at their Infinity Parasports Academy and Rehabilitation Centre in Hyderabad. This program aims to empower young athletes to compete globally.

The para sports center is expected to offer a range of sports, including archery, athletics, badminton, boccia, canoeing, cycling, equestrian, goalsball, judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, volleyball, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, triathlon, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair fencing, and wheelchair rugby. Additionally, winter games such as para alpine skiing, para biathlon, para cross-country skiing, parasnowboarding, para ice hockey, and wheelchair curling will also be included.

According to Aditya Mehta, Founder of the AMF, this development marks a new era for Ladakh region and India's aspirations in international competitions, highlighting a commitment to promoting athletic excellence amidst challenging environment. With its completion, the state is set to host athletes worldwide who seek the unique high-altitude experience.