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Deepa Malik officially opens major global para-sports competition
First Indian female Paralympic medallist Deepa Malik officially inaugurated the 28th World Para Armwrestling Championship in East Delhi this Sunday. Joining the distinguished Padma Shri and Khel Ratna awardee at the opening ceremony was Paralympic Committee of India Vice-President Satya Prakash Sangwan, as hundreds of global competitors prepared for intense action. This major global tournament is running parallel to the 47th World Armwrestling Championship from late October until November 7 at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel. India recently secured hosting rights for this prestigious global championship during a dedicated session in Bulgaria, reflecting the nation's growing prominence and capabilities in managing large-scale international sporting events.
More than 400 para-athletes representing over 60 countries have traveled to the national capital. During her welcome address, Malik highlighted how sport organically bridges diverse cultures and creates lasting friendships beyond geopolitical borders. She praised ongoing national efforts to build an inclusive sports ecosystem that actively offers equal opportunities to all individuals. The accomplished athlete, who holds numerous international and state medals, also extended her festive greetings ahead of Diwali, expressing deep gratitude to all organizers, administrators, and volunteers making this gathering possible.
Satya Prakash Sangwan lauded the local organizing committees for their excellent logistical arrangements, noting the highly significant international turnout. Structured competition schedules designate Sunday entirely for all left-arm para events, while right-arm competition categories will dominate Monday. Senior leaders from the World Armwrestling Federation, alongside representatives from the People's Armwrestling Federation of India, received special recognition for successfully bringing this prominent event to Indian soil.
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