PEOPLE’S ARMWRESTLING FEDERATION OF INDIA (PAFI) has been affiliated with the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), marking a major step in the formal recognition and growth of Para-Armwrestling in the country.
This development significantly strengthens the sport’s ecosystem in India, laying the foundation for structured competitions, systematic athlete development, and deeper integration within the global Paralympic framework.
PAFI, along with the Pro Panja League, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity by supporting para athletes through dedicated categories in the league and across state-level championships. The Pro Panja League has further set a benchmark by creating a unified platform where male, female, and para athletes compete together, with para athletes receiving equal remuneration based on rankings, in line with all other competitors, according to the media release.
The PCI affiliation brings Para-Armwrestling closer to its long-term ambition of inclusion in the Paralympic Games, opening up a clear pathway for Indian athletes to represent the country on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
PCI president Devendra Jhajharia said, ‘’I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the People’s Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI) on receiving official recognition from the Paralympic Committee of India. This recognition stands as a powerful affirmation of PAFI’s sustained efforts to promote and grow the sport of armwrestling for para athletes, while providing them a credible, competitive platform and treating them on par with able-bodied athletes. It reflects the federation’s commitment to inclusivity, structured development, and excellence, and marks an important step in strengthening India’s presence in armwrestling at both national and international levels.”
PAFI president Preeti Jhangiani shared, “We are deeply honored to receive official recognition from the Paralympic Committee of India as the official governing body for armwrestling in India. This milestone is not just an achievement for PAFI, but a validation of our unwavering commitment to transparent governance, athlete welfare, and inclusive growth. It strengthens our resolve to create fair opportunities and a clear pathway for Indian armwrestlers to represent the nation with pride at national and international platforms.”
