Mumbai, Jan 29 (NationPress) The People’s Armwrestling Federation of India (PAFI) has officially been recognized by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).

This affiliation marks a significant advancement for para-armwrestling in India, enhancing its pathway towards organized competition, athlete development, and long-term integration within the global Paralympic framework.

Armwrestling has already gained significant international traction, having been included in the upcoming Asian Youth Para Games 2025 set to take place in Dubai. It is also among the few sports that feature para athletes competing alongside able-bodied athletes. Building on this momentum, PAFI is optimistic about securing a spot in both the Asian Para Games and the Asian Games.

The affiliation with PCI further bolsters these initiatives, bringing para-armwrestling closer to its long-term aspiration of being represented at the Paralympic Games, thereby offering Indian athletes a chance to showcase their skills on the world’s premier athletic stage.

Devendra Jhajharia, the President of PCI, expressed his congratulations, stating, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the People’s Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI) for receiving formal acknowledgment from the Paralympic Committee of India. This recognition is a powerful endorsement of PAFI’s ongoing endeavors to advocate for and develop the sport of armwrestling for para athletes, ensuring they receive a credible competitive platform and are treated on par with able-bodied athletes. It reflects the federation’s commitment to inclusivity, structured development, and excellence, marking a crucial step in enhancing India’s profile in armwrestling at both national and international levels.”

In India, PAFI and the Pro Panja League have demonstrated unwavering support for para athletes by incorporating special categories in the league and state championships. The Pro Panja League has fostered inclusivity by allowing male, female, and para athletes to compete together, with para athletes receiving equal remuneration based on their rankings, consistent with all other competitors.

Together, PAFI and the Pro Panja League have been instrumental in establishing a sustainable environment for Para-Armwrestlers, providing them with structured tournaments, visibility, and professional opportunities, ensuring that domestic competitions align with international standards.

Preeti Jhangiani, President of PAFI, Vice President of the Asian Armwrestling Federation (AAF), and Co-Founder of the Pro Panja League, remarked, “We are profoundly honored to receive official recognition from the Paralympic Committee of India as the governing body for armwrestling in India. This milestone is not merely an achievement for PAFI, but a testament to our unwavering dedication to transparent governance, athlete welfare, and inclusive growth. It reinforces our commitment to creating equitable opportunities and a clear pathway for Indian armwrestlers to proudly represent our nation on both national and international stages.”