LEH TO ESTABLISH WORLD'S FIRST HIGH-ALTITUDE PARA SPORTS CENTRE
Leh, Ladakh - November 12: In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing the skills and confidence of athletes ahead of the 2028 Paralympics, the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) has signed a Memorandum and Understanding (MoU) to establish the world's first high-altitude para sports centre in Leh.
The historic agreement was inked between LAHDC and the Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF), with both parties pledging their support for the ambitious project, which is set to revolutionize the sports landscape in the region. The centre will cater to a range ofPara sports disciplines aimed at developing young athletes who are passionate about achieving excellence despite facing physical challenges.
"We are thrilled that Leh has been selected to establish the world's first-ever high-altitude para sports centre," said Advocate Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of LAHDC. "Indian para-athletes have shown remarkable talent and potential in international competitions, including a 29-medal haul at the 2024 Paralympics."
Meanwhile, Aditya Mehta, Founder of AMF, believes that this initiative marks a new era for India's participation in international Para sporting events," said Mehta. "Our vision is to empower young talent with advanced skills and training to shape India's future in competition at the highest stages worldwide.
The centre will initially offer training to 15 Children with Special Needs (CwSN) from the Ladakh-Ladakh UT region, who will undergo a comprehensive screening, counselling, and rehabilitation program. Upon completion of their training, aspiring Para athletes who may identify themselves as such, will be identified for further training.
"We are determined to leverage this state-of-the-art facility to create Para sports enthusiasts across Leh-Ladakh UT," highlighted Tashi Gyalson.
This initiative is a testament to the Ladakh region's remarkable journey and unwavering dedication towards sports and youth empowerment.
The centre offers an array of sports disciplines, including:
- Archery
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Blind Football
- Boccia
- Canoeing
- Cycling
- Equestrian
- Goalball
- Judo
- Powerlifting
- Rowing
- Shooting
- Volleyball
- Swimming
- Table Tennis
- Taekwondo
- Triathlon
- Wheelchair Basketball
- Wheelchair Fencing
- Wheelchair Rugby
- Wheelchair Tennis
- Winter Games: Para Alpine Skiing
- Para Biathlon
- Para Cross-Country Skiing
- Para Ice Hockey