IIT Madras, SBI Foundation offer para-athlete sports scholarship

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has joined hands with the SBI Foundation to launch a Para-Athlete Sports Scholarship programme aimed at empowering 100 para-athletes across India.

As a part of the scholarship, 100 selected athletes will get a monthly stipend of Rs 40,000 each and scientific training. The institute aims to support their journey toward national and international sporting excellence.

IIT Madras center of excellence for human performance , Acrophase, is providing the technical assistance for this initiative under the leadership of Professor Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam.

Looking forward to encouraging para-athletes, Sanjay Prakash, MD and CEO, SBI Foundation, said, “At SBI Foundation, we believe in the unlimited potential of the para-athletes of India. Their dedication, talent, and resilience are highly inspiring. With the launch of SBIF PASS (Para Athletes Sports Scholarship), we take another step towards enabling them to chase their dreams and bring glory to our Nation.”

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He added, “This initiative is not just about financial support – it is about giving our para-athletes the recognition, resources, and confidence they deserve. Together, let’s champion their journey and celebrate their success. We are proud to stand beside them – now, and always.”

Support system for para-athletes

Lauding the funding support, Ashwin Mahalingam, dean (alumni and corporate relations), IIT Madras, said, “At IIT Madras, we deeply value our partnership with SBI Foundation and the opportunities it creates. The Para Athlete Sports Scholarship program is clearly aligned with the values of diversity and inclusion in sports that we have been championing over the years. It levels the playing field for para-athletes by opening up avenues for them to aspire, dream and grow on both the national and international stage.”

The scholarship ensures that para-athletes have access to the required resources, data, and mentorship, in order to compete at the highest level. The goal is to build a strong and inclusive support system support for para-athletes, to help them prepare for events like the Paralympics and other international events.

This marks a significant step forward in recognising and nurturing the potential of differently-abled athletes, aligning with both institutions' shared vision of inclusive growth and excellence.