Raipur, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Badminton Association of India (BAI) is conducting its first-ever Coaches Development Program - Para Badminton (Grassroot) in Raipur from December 16 to 20. This initiative represents a significant advancement in strengthening the coaching framework that facilitates the rapid expansion of the sport within the country.

The five-day gathering brings together coaches from across India for targeted training aimed at building long-lasting skills in para-badminton.

Under the guidance of Gaurav Khanna, a recipient of the prestigious Dronacharya Award and the national head coach of the Indian para-badminton team, the course encompasses a comprehensive curriculum blending theoretical lectures with practical on-court experiences.

Participants gain insights into vital areas such as disability awareness, governance in para-sports, classification systems, assistive technology, coaching methodologies, medical support, and event management, ensuring a holistic understanding of the discipline.

The para-badminton sector in India is steadily flourishing, as evidenced by the recent achievements of Indian athletes at international events. At the 2024 BWF Para-Badminton World Championships, Indian players secured 18 medals, showcasing their prowess in various categories. This success was mirrored at the Summer Paralympics 2024, where India clinched five medals, reinforcing its position as a formidable player in the arena. As the standards rise, the emphasis on structured coach education becomes crucial for sustaining this progress.

Sanjay Mishra, the General Secretary of BAI, stated, “This coaching program is a pivotal step towards fortifying the ecosystem surrounding para-badminton. Our athletes' performances on the global stage highlight both our potential and responsibility. By emphasizing coach development and specialized training, we are ensuring the sport’s growth is both measurable and sustainable.”

In addition to Khanna, a prominent figure in India's para-badminton landscape credited with guiding athletes to more than 1,000 international medals, the program also benefits from the expertise of Murali Krishna.

Krishna has represented India at various prestigious events, including the World Championships, the Hangzhou Asian Games, and numerous international tournaments across Asia, Europe, and Africa.

“Para-badminton requires a specialized coaching methodology,” Khanna emphasized. “As the sport evolves, it is essential for coaches to have a deep understanding of classification, equipment, movement patterns, and athlete care. This course is designed to equip them with that indispensable knowledge to better support athletes at all levels.”

BAI aims to further this initiative with similar programs in the future, as part of its broader objective to enhance the ecosystem and promote the continuous advancement of para-badminton in India.