The collaboration aims to build a world-class support system integrating advanced prosthetic technology with elite coaching and grassroots talent development
19th March, 2025 – Paralympic Committee of India is the apex governing body working for the promotion and development of para-sports (Divyang Sports) in India. It is affiliated to the International Paralympic Committee (based in Bonn Germany) & recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Government of India as a National Sports Federation. In the last decade, the para-sport landscape in India has undergone a dramatic transformation, reaching a medal tally of 29 in Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. However, the para-sport talent in India is immense, waiting to be discovered and honed.
Devices like prosthetic blades, orthotic supports and wheelchairs are an integral part of a para-athlete’s sport performance. Better and more efficient the devices, better the performance! However, it is not only the devices: their accurate fitment to athletes and usage training, after-care service, service availability at the area of competitions and the athletic coaches’ understanding of the devices constitute the complete ecosystem required for success.
With the aim of enabling athletes to excel at the upcoming World Para athletic Championship, PCI has signed a collaborative agreement with Otto Bock HealthCare, a German global leader in provision of cutting-edge prosthetic-orthotic and wheelchair devices.
Ottobock already works with International paralympic Committee as the Official Technical Service Provider of Paralympic Games since 1988. Present in India since 1998, Ottobock brings to the table it’s global technology, local expertise of experienced clinicians, it’s national network of 23 clinics to offer after-care support and their know-how in treating complex mobility related solutions.
The partnership will equip para-athletes with cutting-edge prosthetic solutions, specialized training, and expert after-care. Ottobock will provide high-quality prosthetic and orthotic devices tailored to athletes’ needs, while a dedicated training program will upskill coaches and prosthetists to optimize prosthesis fitment and performance.
Mr. Rahul Swami, the CEO of Paralympic Committee of India added, “This monumental collaboration marks a watershed moment in the evolution of para-sports in India. By establishing this alliance with Ottobock, we are implementing a novel framework that will systematically identify, develop, and elevate para-athletic talent from grassroots participation through to prestigious international competitions.”
Mat’s Frank, Managing Director of Otto Bock HealthCare India said, “At Ottobock, we remain steadfastly committed to technological excellence and human potential. Our precision-engineered prosthetic solutions represent the convergence of biomechanical innovation and athletic performance optimization. This affiliation with PCI enables us to strategically expand our impact, ensuring these innovative solutions become accessible to para-athletes throughout India’s diverse regions. Together, we will systematically implement a comprehensive performance structure that integrates specialized technical training, world-class mentorship, and psychological performance optimization, all essential components for sustained athletic development and international competitive success.”
The initiative will also focus on talent identification and development. Through PCI screening events and Ottobock clinics, young para-athletes will receive prosthetic solutions to enhance mobility and performance. Ottobock will provide free device repair service at major para-sport events, offering on-site prosthetic, orthotic and wheelchair repairs. Additionally, two-time Paralympic gold medalist Heinrich Popow will train 10 para-athletic coaches and 5 prosthetists in sport prosthesis techniques, strengthening long-term athlete support.
The partnership has already launched its first program, delivering technical support and maintenance services for athletes at the New Delhi 2025 WPA Grand Prix competition. Upcoming initiatives include a Running Clinic led by Popow, where 15 selected leg amputees, both established and emerging athletes, will undergo intensive training.
About Ottobock
Ottobock is a 100 year old German organization, a global leader in the area of prosthetic devices. Ottobock has been actively supporting International disability Sport since 1988 Paralympic games in Seol. Since then, their support for Paralympic and associated sport has grown massively. Besides professional sport, Ottobock try to inculcate sport as a lifestyle adaptation for people with amputations.
