India’s first exclusive Multi-Disciplinary Sports Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities has opened its doors for new admissions for the 2025-26 academic year. The Centre, backed by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, has called on eligible para-athletes to apply for upcoming selection trials scheduled for June 16 to 18 in Gwalior.
Located at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Training Centre for Disability Sports, the facility offers world-class coaching, residential facilities, sports infrastructure, and academic support to young athletes between the ages of 13 and 25. The move is seen as a critical step in mainstreaming para-sports and building a pipeline of talent for national and international competitions.
Games for which trials are being conducted include athletics, badminton, football, table tennis, swimming, and volleyball. The last date to submit applications by post is June 10, 2025, until 5:30 PM. Eligibility criteria include prior national or international classification, participation, or medal records.
The initiative aims to remove systemic barriers and foster a level playing field by offering amenities comparable to those provided to able-bodied athletes. The Centre also assists athletes with academic enrollment, dietary support, and exposure to competitive events.
As the world of para-sports gains momentum globally, India’s investment in this dedicated facility reflects an evolving sports policy that values inclusivity. For more details, applicants can visit the official website https://cdsgwalior.nic.in, email gwalior.cds@gmail.com, or call 0751-2991397.
The Centre is expected to become a breeding ground for future Paralympians and a model of integrated sports development across the country.
