Table of Contents
Indian sport has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with para-athletes consistently demonstrating resilience, determination and excellence on national and international platforms. Their achievements have not only brought glory to the country but have also highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive sporting ecosystem that provides equal opportunities for every athlete. While talent remains abundant, many para-athletes continue to face challenges related to financial support, access to sports science and specialised training. Addressing these challenges, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and SBI Foundation have launched Phase 2 of the Para-Athlete Sports Scholarship Program, expanding the initiative to benefit a larger number of athletes across multiple disciplines. The programme combines financial assistance with scientific performance support, enabling athletes to focus on reaching their full potential.
Strengthening India’s Para-Sports Ecosystem
The second phase of the scholarship programme marks a significant step towards promoting inclusivity in Indian sports. This expanded initiative will support 80 para-athletes competing across eight recognised Paralympic disciplines, reflecting a stronger commitment to nurturing sporting talent irrespective of physical challenges.
Unlike conventional scholarship schemes that primarily offer financial assistance, this programme integrates sports science, nutrition and personalised performance guidance into athlete development. Such a comprehensive approach acknowledges that elite sporting success depends on multiple factors beyond training alone.
By investing in long-term athlete development, IIT Madras and SBI Foundation are contributing to a more sustainable framework for para-sports in India.
Financial Assistance Combined with Expert Support
Each selected athlete will receive a monthly scholarship of ₹40,000 for one year, allowing them to manage training expenses, equipment costs and other competitive requirements with greater confidence.
However, the programme extends well beyond financial aid.
Selected athletes will also benefit from:
- Sports science-based performance assessments
- Personalised sports nutrition guidance
- Individual performance improvement strategies
- Continuous support throughout the one-year programme
This holistic model ensures that athletes receive professional assistance that directly contributes to improving their competitive performance rather than simply easing financial pressures.
Equal Opportunities Across Multiple Disciplines
One of the defining strengths of the programme is its commitment to gender equality. The scholarship will support 40 male and 40 female para-athletes, ensuring balanced representation across different sporting disciplines.
The initiative covers:
- Archery
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Judo
- Powerlifting
- Shooting
- Swimming
- Taekwondo
By including athletes from diverse sporting backgrounds, the programme acknowledges the growing depth of para-sports talent emerging across India.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to Indian para-athletes aged up to 35 years who have represented either their respective states or India in recognised national or international competitions.
Applicants must also fulfil the programme’s eligibility criteria and submit the required supporting documents during the application process.
The registration process for Phase 2 is currently open, and applications can be submitted through the official SBI Foundation website until 9th August 2026.
Such transparent eligibility criteria ensure that deserving athletes from across the country have an opportunity to benefit from the initiative.
The Role of Sports Science in Modern Competition
One of the most innovative aspects of the programme is the involvement of Acrophase, the Centre of Excellence for Human Performance at IIT Madras.
Rather than focusing solely on training schedules, Acrophase will conduct sports science-based performance assessments designed to help athletes identify strengths, address weaknesses and optimise their preparation for major competitions.
The assessments may include analysis of biomechanics, physical conditioning and other performance-related factors that significantly influence athletic success.
As competitive sport becomes increasingly data-driven, access to scientific expertise can provide athletes with a valuable competitive advantage.
Click below to watch the video.
Nutrition as a Performance Enhancer
Nutrition has become an essential component of elite sports performance. Athletes require carefully planned dietary strategies that complement their training routines and recovery schedules.
Recognising this, the scholarship programme offers personalised sports nutrition guidance throughout the one-year support period.
Experts will help athletes align their nutritional plans with their individual training requirements, competition schedules and recovery needs.
In addition, the programme will continue providing performance-related support whenever athletes require assistance while preparing for competitions, ensuring sustained guidance rather than one-time intervention.
Building an Inclusive Future for Indian Sports
Inclusive sports development requires more than infrastructure and financial investment. It demands a support system that recognises the unique requirements of every athlete while creating opportunities to compete at the highest level.
This initiative demonstrates how academic institutions and corporate foundations can collaborate to create meaningful change beyond traditional educational or philanthropic boundaries.
EducationToday continues its effort to bring such developments across education, research and youth empowerment; initiatives that combine scientific innovation with social inclusion represent an encouraging direction for India’s sporting ecosystem. By extending equal opportunities to para-athletes, the programme reflects the growing recognition that excellence in sport should be determined by talent, dedication and access to quality support rather than physical limitations.
Investing in Champions Beyond the Playing Field
The expansion of the Para-Athlete Sports Scholarship Program reflects a long-term vision for strengthening India’s presence in international para-sports. By integrating financial assistance, sports science, nutrition and personalised mentoring, the initiative creates a comprehensive ecosystem that supports athletes throughout their competitive journey. As Indian para-athletes continue to raise the nation’s profile on global sporting platforms, programmes such as this play an essential role in ensuring that talent receives the resources needed to flourish. Collaborative efforts between institutions like IIT Madras and SBI Foundation demonstrate how innovation, inclusion and sustained investment can empower athletes to pursue excellence while inspiring future generations to believe that every sporting dream deserves equal opportunity.
It is an initiative supporting para-athletes with financial assistance and opportunities to strengthen their sporting careers and development.
Phase 2 expands the support provided to eligible para-athletes, building on the earlier collaboration between IIT Madras and SBI Foundation.
Eligible para-athletes who meet the programme’s selection criteria can receive support under the initiative.
The programme focuses on financial assistance and broader support for training, sporting development and career progression.
Scholarships can help reduce financial barriers, improve access to training and enable para-athletes to pursue sporting excellence while balancing education and career goals.
