Decades ofParalympic Excellence
From humble beginnings to Paralympic glory - witness the incredible transformation and growth of India's Paralympic movement through decades of dedication and achievements.
The Debut in Tel Aviv
India made its Summer Paralympic debut in Tel Aviv (Nov 4-13). Ten athletes—eight men and two women—competed, laying the foundation for a national para-sport movement.
First Gold in Heidelberg
At the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, West Germany, Murlikant Petkar won India's first Paralympic gold in 50m freestyle with a world-record swim.
Stoke Mandeville & New York Breakthrough
India's five-member contingent competed in Stoke Mandeville (GBR) and New York (USA), returning with four medals—two silver and two bronze—marking a landmark multi-medal Games.
Institutional Foundations
A pivotal phase for governance: groundwork culminating in the registration of the Para Sports Federation of India in Bengaluru and the national federation push led by Shri M. Mahadeva and colleagues.
Athens Podium
At the Athens Summer Paralympics, Devendra Jhajharia struck gold in javelin and Rajinder Singh earned bronze in powerlifting (56 kg). India placed 53rd among 136 nations.
Hosting the IWAS World Games
PSFI hosted the IWAS World Games with 43 nations participating. India finished 2nd in the medals tally, showcasing organizational capacity and athlete depth.
London Silver
India competed at the London 2012 Paralympics (Aug 29–Sep 9). H.N. Girisha won silver in Men's High Jump F42—an inspirational leap for the nation.
Rio Record Haul
India's largest-ever Paralympic contingent delivered its best performance: 4 medals—2 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze. Highlights included Jhajharia's javelin world record and Thangavelu's historic T42 gold.
Driven byPurpose & Passion
Mission
The mission of the Para Sports Federation of India ( PSFI ) is to promote and support para sports across the nation. This involves educating the public and professionals about para sports, providing guidance to differently-abled individuals and their families on how to become para-athletes, fostering pride and emphasising the importance of sports in their lives. Collectively, these efforts contribute to the growth and development of para sports and empower differently-abled individuals through sports.
Vision
Inclusivity and Equality: Ensure that differently-abled athletes have equal access to sports facilities, training, and competitive opportunities. To create a sporting culture where differently-abled athletes are respected, supported, and celebrated for their achievements. Empowerment Through Sports: To identify, nurture, and develop the potential of differently-abled athletes from grassroots to elite levels and support the overall well-being of athletes. Excellence in Para-Sports: Enhance the performance of Indian para-athletes in national and international competitions, including the Paralympic Games. Thus, establishing India as a leading nation in the para-sports movement globally. Awareness and Advocacy: Increase public awareness about para-sports and the capabilities of differently-abled athletes and advocate for the rights and recognition of differently-abled athletes within the broader sporting community and society.
Our Core Values
Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of para-sport development and athlete performance. Inclusion: Creating opportunities for all differently-abled individuals regardless of their background or disability type. Integrity: Conducting all activities with honesty, transparency, and ethical principles. Empowerment: Building confidence and self-belief in para-athletes to achieve their full potential. Innovation: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and approaches to enhance para-sport development. Respect: Valuing the dignity and worth of every individual within the para-sport community.
United in the Spirit of Paralympic Excellence
Representing the tricolor with pride and determination, PSFI stands as the beacon of hope for millions of differently-abled athletes across India. From grassroots development to Paralympic podiums, we foster a nationwide network that transforms dreams into golden realities, proving that excellence knows no boundaries.
Guiding Indian Para-athletesto Excellence since 1994
The Para Sports Federation of India ( PSFI ) is the apex governing body dedicated to promoting and developing Para Sports across the nation. In consistent with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Government of India, as a National Sports Federation.
With affiliations spanning 26 State Associations, 8 Individual Para Sports Federations, and 6 National Sports Federations, PSFI is committed to the holistic development of Para Sports.
Our mission is to identify, train and support athletes across the country, fostering a dynamic Paralympic movement and ensuring strong representation in both national and international sports events.
We play a crucial role in selecting and preparing Indian teams for the Paralympic Games and other prestigious international competitions, achieving remarkable success at the Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020.
In collaboration with esteemed partners like Indian Army and Indian Oil Corporation Limited, PSFI is spearheading initiatives to further the growth of Para Sports.
Key Partners:
🏆 Recently Hosted: New Delhi 2024 World Para Athletics Championships
With the unwavering support of the Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, PSFI is empowering athletes with disabilities to excel and make their mark on the global stage.
Awards & Recognitions
Celebrating our milestones and acknowledgements in empowering para-sports across the nation.
Best National Sports Federation
2023 - Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
Recognized for outstanding contribution to the development and promotion of para-sports in India.
IPC Excellence Award
2021 - International Paralympic Committee
Awarded for exceptional growth and grassroots level athlete development initiatives across the country.
Inclusive Sports Initiative
2022 - Global Sports Summit
Honored for successfully implementing accessible sports infrastructure and training camps nationwide.
Ready to Make History?
Join us in our mission to empower para-athletes and build an inclusive sporting ecosystem that transforms lives and creates champions.