All Things Policy Parasport: More Than Just Medals
Jan 8, 2026
In a thought-provoking conversation, Manasi Joshi, a para-badminton world champion and advocate for inclusive sports, teams up with Malathi Renati, head of policy at Takshashila. They explore the evolution of para-sports in India, discussing the importance of policy reforms and the need for societal acceptance. Topics like talent identification, the impact of government initiatives, and the ongoing challenges of sponsorship and affordability in para-sport are also highlighted. Their discussion emphasizes viewing para-sport not as an exception, but as an essential part of India's sporting narrative.
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Classification Shift Equalized Competition
- India adopted IPC-aligned classification between 2007 and 2010 which moved categories from medical labels to functional sport classes.
- This harmonization created clearer, fairer competition and reduced confusion across tournaments.
Policy Integration Expanded Support
- Government schemes like TOPS (which included para sports in 2020) and Khelo India (2023) integrated para athletes into organized training and support.
- Recent policy moves and governance laws have normalized para sport within India's sports framework and planning.
Rapid Growth In Paralympic Presence
- India improved Paralympic performance rapidly: 10 athletes in 1968, 54 in Tokyo 2020 and 80+ in Paris 2024.
- The country achieved a record 29 medals at Paris, showing recent talent identification and investment gains.