ITANAGAR, Sep 2: Aimed at intensifying the para sports scenario throughout the State, the Paralympic Association of Arunachal (PAA) fruitfully conducted a State-level coordination meeting with its affiliated State and District Para Sports Associations at DPS, Itanagar on Wednesday.
Chaired by Takam Pario, Chairman PAA, the meeting brought together representatives of affiliated associations to deliberate on key issues concerning the promotion, development and expansion of para sports across the State.
The meeting primarily focused on establishing stronger coordination between the State and District-level affiliated units and developing a structured mechanism to increase district participation in para sports. Particular emphasis was placed on taking sporting activities to the grassroots level and creating an effective talent identification and development pathway for promising athletes with disabilities.
The participants discussed the need for regular district-level competitions, talent scouting programmes, athlete development initiatives and greater participation in State-level championships. Strengthening the capacity of affiliated associations, coaches, technical officials and other stakeholders was also highlighted as an important component of sustainable Para Sports development.
Meanwhile, the meeting also reviewed the preparations for Arunachal Pradesh’s participation in the 3rd Northeast Para Games 2026, scheduled to be held from November 27 to 29. The PAA will initiate focused preparations to ensure that the State’s para athletes are adequately prepared for the regional multi-sport competition.
As part of the preparation, the PAA is planning to conduct a specialised coaching and training camp during October next for selected athletes. The camp will focus on systematic training, performance improvement, technical preparation and overall readiness of the State contingent.
The PAA stressed that grassroots development and wider district participation are essential for building a strong talent pool and ensuring that deserving athletes from every part of Arunachal Pradesh receive opportunities to train, compete and progress to higher levels of competition.
The meeting further reaffirmed the collective commitment of the PAA and its affiliated associations to work in close coordination with the concerned government departments and other stakeholders for the systematic growth of para sports in the State.
The PAA expressed confidence that strengthened coordination at the State and District levels, coupled with focused preparation for major competitions such as the Northeast Para Games, will contribute significantly towards identifying new talent, increasing participation, improving sporting opportunities for persons with disabilities and building a stronger Para Sports ecosystem in Arunachal Pradesh.