LAHDC Teams Up with Aditya Mehta Foundation to Establish World's First High-Altitude Para Sports Centre
Leh, Ladakh: In a historic partnership, the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) has joined forces with the Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF) to create the world's first high-altitude para sports centre. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed recently between LAHDC and AMF, marking a significant milestone for Indian sports on an international level.
Thecentre aims to enhance the abilities and confidence of Indian para-athletes as they prepare for the 2028 Paralympics. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Advocate Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC, expressed pride in Leh's role in pioneering this project. "It is a very proud feeling for us that Leh will be establishing the world's first-ever high-altitude centre for para sports," he said.
The facility will offer a comprehensive range of para sports training, including archery, athletics, badminton, cycling, judo, swimming, wheelchair basketball, and more. Additionally, winter para sports like alpine skiing, biathlon, and wheelchair curling will also be an integral part of the programme. This centre promises to be a significant resource in advancing India's presence in global para sports and fostering local talent from Ladakh and beyond.
Until the new facility becomes operational, 15 Children with Special Needs (CwSN) from the Leh-Ladakh region will receive initial screening, counselling, and training at AMF's Infinity Parasports Academy and Rehabilitation Centre in Hyderabad. These selected individuals will gain an early foundation in para sports, setting the stage for their participation in international competitions.
Aditya Mehta, Founder of AMF, described the initiative as a milestone for India. "The opening of Leh Ladakh as a hub for para sports marks a new era not just for the region, but for India's future in international competitions," he said. The successful development and establishment of this centre is a testament to the dedication and commitment of Indian para-athletes.
India's success in international competitions has been witnessed with 29 medals, including seven golds, won by Indian para-athletes at the recent 2024 Paralympics in Paris. This achievement only underscores the significance of this partnership, further solidifying India's position as a major player in global para sports.