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

Leh, Ladakh - In a groundbreaking move towards inclusivity in sports, the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, has partnered with the Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF) to establish the world's first high-altitude sports centre dedicated to para-athletes. The initiative was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed recently, aiming to revolutionize sports training for athletes with disabilities.

Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the LAHDC, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, "This initiative aims to provide specially-abled athletes with high-performance training facilities at a unique high-altitude location, enhancing their preparation and potential for international competitions, including the 2028 Paralympics."

Under the terms of the MoU, until the completion of the centre, Children with Special Needs (CwSN) from the Ladakh region will be screened, counselled, and trained at the Infinity Parasports Academy and Rehabilitation Centre in Hyderabad, which is managed by AMF. This interim arrangement ensures that potential para-athletes continue to receive top-tier training.

The envisioned high-altitude para-sports centre will not only cater to athletes from India but will also welcome para-athletes from around the globe, offering them an unparalleled training environment that leverages the advantages of high-altitude conditioning. "This centre will empower our differently-abled athletes, allowing them to train with world-class facilities and represent Ladakh with pride on global platforms," Gyalson added.

To bring this vision to life, a dedicated committee has been formed to oversee the development of the centre. Gyalson has also directed officials to begin identifying suitable land for the facility. Additionally, he announced that 15 potential candidates from Ladakh will soon be dispatched for training in Hyderabad. Screenings for these candidates will be conducted at the sub-divisional level to ensure wide participation and representation.

This project marks a historic step for Ladakh, not only in terms of sports development but also in promoting inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with disabilities. The centre is expected to significantly boost Ladakh's profile in international para-sports and contribute to the broader goals of the Paralympic movement.