The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, and the Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 8 to establish the world’s first high-altitude para sports centre for para-athletes.

This pioneering initiative will provide specially-abled athletes with high-performance training facilities in a unique high-altitude setting, boosting their preparation for international competitions, including the 2028 Paralympics.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by prominent Council members, including Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, Executive Councillor, Tsering Namgyal, LOP, and Councilors Lobzang Sherab, Konchok Stanzin, Sonam Norboo, Eshey Spalzang, Karma Namdak, Tundup Norboo, Mirza Hussain, and Sonam Thardot, along with senior representatives from the Council and local associations. Key AMF representatives included D.P. Singh, Ex-DIG BSF, J.K. Mehta, Joint Managing Trustee, and Aditya Mehta, Founder of AMF.

Until the centre’s completion, Children with Special Needs (CwSN) from the Leh-Ladakh region will receive screening, counseling, and training at Hyderabad’s Infinity Parasports Academy and Rehabilitation Centre, managed by AMF. This interim phase will help build foundational skills and provide essential rehabilitation for aspiring para-athletes from Ladakh.

Vision for the High-Altitude Centre
The high-altitude para sports centre will offer inclusive, world-class training to para-athletes from India and beyond, equipping them with a unique competitive edge through high-altitude training. The facility is aligned with the larger vision of preparing para-athletes for the 2028 Paralympics and enhancing their skills and confidence to excel on the global stage.

CEC Tashi Gyalson underscored the centre’s significance, calling it a historic step toward sports inclusivity in Ladakh: “This centre will empower our differently-abled athletes, allowing them to train with world-class facilities and represent Ladakh with pride on global platforms.” To facilitate the project, he announced the formation of a committee to oversee its development and directed officials to begin land identification. Additionally, 15 potential candidates from Ladakh will soon be sent to Hyderabad for training, with screenings held at the sub-divisional level to ensure broad participation.

This landmark initiative highlights LAHDC Leh’s commitment to breaking barriers and creating new opportunities for para-athletes, with the Aditya Mehta Foundation as a dedicated partner in this transformative journey.