Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) has inaugurated the 1st National Wheelchair Handball Championship at its IEC Campus in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone in advancing inclusive and adaptive sports in India. The championship, being held from April 15 to April 19, brings together para-athletes from across the country in a celebration of resilience, talent, and equal opportunity.
Organised in collaboration with the Handball Federation of India, the championship has attracted over 70 players and officials representing six states. The event reflects the growing interest and participation in adaptive sports while providing a structured national platform for athletes with disabilities to compete, collaborate, and gain visibility on a larger stage.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Dev Lulla, Educationist Mentor at Lulla School of Excellence; Sapna Lulla, Senior Educator and Counsellor; and Amit Sharma, Head of the Artificial Limb Centre. They were joined by Dr Jitendra Sharma, Managing Director and Founder CEO of AMTZ, and Capt Louise George, Director of the Para Sports Academy at AMTZ, who have been instrumental in driving this initiative.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr Jitendra Sharma highlighted the broader vision behind the championship, stating that the event is not just about competition but about building a pathway for India’s future national team in wheelchair handball. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and preparing athletes for international platforms, particularly with upcoming global tournaments on the horizon. He reaffirmed AMTZ’s commitment to supporting selected athletes with the necessary resources and infrastructure to excel at the highest level.
Capt Louise George underscored the importance of creating opportunities for para-athletes through structured initiatives. She noted that the championship represents more than a sporting event—it is a step toward building an ecosystem that fosters growth, training, and long-term career development. She encouraged participants to approach the tournament with a sense of purpose and national pride, envisioning their journey toward representing India on the global stage.
Over the course of five days, participating teams will compete in a spirit of determination and sportsmanship, demonstrating exceptional skill, teamwork, and perseverance. The championship also aims to raise awareness about accessibility in sports and highlight the transformative role of athletics in promoting inclusion and empowerment.
AMTZ, widely recognised for its contributions to healthcare innovation, continues to expand its impact beyond medical technology through initiatives like the Para Sports Academy. By integrating sports into its broader mission, the organisation is working to create an inclusive environment where individuals are empowered to achieve their full potential, regardless of physical limitations.
The hosting of the National Wheelchair Handball Championship reinforces AMTZ’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and equal opportunity across sectors. It also signals a growing recognition of the importance of adaptive sports in India’s sporting landscape.
As the tournament progresses, it is expected to not only identify emerging talent but also inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence in para-sports. With continued support from institutions like AMTZ, India is steadily moving toward a future where ability is celebrated and opportunities are accessible to all.
