New Delhi, July 22: Devendra Jhajharia, the President of the Indian Paralympic Committee, announced the country’s intent to host the World Ability Sports Games in 2029. He revealed that Chennai and Bhubaneswar have been selected as potential venues for the event.
In a conversation, Jhajharia stated, “An MoU was signed at the Constitution Club in New Delhi between the Cerebral Palsy Federation, the Sports Federation of India, and the Paralympic Committee of India. Under this agreement, we will claim the right to host the 2029 World Ability Sports Games at two locations—Chennai and Bhubaneswar. We previously hosted the Para World Athletics Championship in 2025, which saw participation from over 100 countries. It was the largest event organized by India, and we performed well, finishing among the top 10 in the medal tally.”
He emphasized the importance of both playing and organizing sports, saying, “We want to lead in this area. Given our structure, I hope we will be granted the right to host. The Commonwealth Games 2030 will take place in Ahmedabad, which strengthens our case for the 2029 World Ability Sports Games.”
Jhajharia noted that athletes from any country can participate in the World Ability Sports Games. “The last edition saw nearly 1,000 athletes compete. I aspire for 1,500 athletes to join us next time. Previously known as the ‘IWAS Games,’ the event has now been renamed the Ability Sports Games. We have hosted this event before,” he added.
He also highlighted the significance of para sports, stating, “These games provide a platform for para-athletes and inspire other athletes to excel. They also motivate individuals facing challenges in life to strive for better.”
Rajesh Tomar, an executive member of the World Ability Sports Board and President of the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India, remarked, “The Cerebral Palsy Federation supports children born with this condition, for whom treatment is often not possible. The Paralympic Committee of India is working hard to provide facilities and platforms for these athletes.”
Tomar mentioned, “We are working with children affected by cerebral palsy. We received recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in 2022. Many children have emerged and won medals at the Para Asian Games. The World Ability Games will feature various sports categories, and we aim to host them before the Commonwealth Games 2030, with Chennai and Bhubaneswar as our selected venues.”
He concluded, “In India, we have 26 members overseeing children with cerebral palsy. We have organized events at the state level for athletes with this condition, providing opportunities for top performers at the national level.”
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