Advancing Para Sports Through Technology

As the sports world continues to evolve, the integration of technology at the grassroots level, particularly for para-athletes, has become vital. Addressing the specific challenges these athletes face, especially in rural and underprivileged areas, is key to their success. The convergence of innovative tools and local realities is essential for creating an inclusive environment where every athlete, regardless of their physical abilities, can thrive.

At the grassroots level, understanding the realities on the ground is essential before implementing technological solutions. Many para-athletes come from rural areas with limited resources, making it crucial to tailor technology to their specific needs. The lack of access to basic sports infrastructure and training facilities in these regions often leaves para-athletes at a disadvantage, highlighting the need for customized solutions that can bridge this gap.

“Most athletes come from rural areas and underprivileged stages. It’s essential to align with these realities before planning any technology or training,” said Mr. Ramesh Nagapuri, Dronacharya Awardee, HPD Athletics & Chief Coach, Junior National Athletic Team.

Customizing equipment and training tools for para-athletes poses significant challenges. Unlike able-bodied athletes, para-athletes often lack access to equipment tailored to their specific needs. This customization is not just about enhancing performance but also about ensuring safety and preventing injury during training and competition.

Brig. Dr. Bibhu Kalyan Nayak, Chairman Medical Commission, Indian Olympic Association, added, “The challenge is not only in customizing but also in ensuring the affordability and accessibility of these tools across the spectrum of para athletes.”

Adding to this, Dr. Manish Anand, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras, highlighted a pressing concern: “One of the biggest challenges in India is that there’s no equivalent of a shoe shop for para athletes or people with disabilities in general.”

Data collection and analysis at the grassroots level are critical for identifying talent and ensuring effective training. However, the scale of the problem, especially in rural areas, poses significant challenges. Accurate data is the foundation of any successful training program, yet collecting and analyzing this data in remote areas remains a daunting task.

“The biggest challenge is the scale of the problem. Capturing data across schools and ensuring its reliability is a huge task,” explained Mr. Rajesh Rajagopalan, CEO of ELMS.

By focusing on these key areas—customization of tools, affordability, accessibility, and effective data utilization—stakeholders can better leverage technology to support grassroots and para-athletes. Ensuring that these athletes receive the opportunities and resources needed to excel on the global stage is not just a matter of technology, but of commitment to inclusivity and equity in sports.