Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi: Ahmedabad is hosting its fifth international sporting tournament in six months, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said on Friday as the World Archery Para Series (WAPS)-2026 got underway at the Sabarmati Riverfront.
Sanghavi said the frequency of international events in Ahmedabad reflected the expansion of sports infrastructure and the state’s growing sporting ecosystem.
“This is not merely a competition, but a celebration of human potential and strong determination,” Sanghavi said while addressing the inauguration event.
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah virtually launched the championship, which is being held from September 5 to 9.
The Deputy Chief Minister said archery is a natural strength of young people from tribal areas and noted that several athletes from these regions had gone on to represent the country and bring recognition to India.
"Gujarat, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, is committed to developing a comprehensive sports ecosystem. The state has allocated Rs 66 crore for sports in the 2026-27 financial year," he said.
Sanghavi also highlighted the growth of the 'Khel Mahakumbh', which was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as Gujarat chief minister. "More than 75 lakh athletes now participate in the event every year," he said.
He said an advanced Para Sports Training Centre was being developed in Gandhinagar and would have facilities incorporating artificial intelligence and sports science.
"Gujarat’s long-term objective is to establish itself as a global sports hub by hosting major international events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and, in the future, the Olympics," he said.
He appealed to people to attend the tournament until September 9 and encourage the participating para-athletes.
The event has brought together 108 archers from 19 countries, including India, China, Britain, France, Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Slovakia, the United States, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cyprus, Czechia, Iraq and the Russian Federation.
He appealed to people to attend the tournament until September 9 and encourage the participating para-athletes.
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World Para Archery champion Sheetal Devi was also presented with the Para Archer of the Year award by World Archery Executive Director Juan Carlos Holgado during the event.