New Delhi 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix Opens with Historic Accessibility Pledge at JLN Stadium
New Delhi, March 12, 2026: The New Delhi 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix officially commenced today at the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium, marked by a historic commitment to inclusivity. In a powerful opening ceremony, para-athletes, coaches, and support staff from across the globe gathered to take a formal pledge for accessibility. The initiative was led by Svayam, the accessibility organization serving as the official accessibility partner for the Grand Prix for the second time, the organization said in a press release.
The pledge highlights a growing movement to integrate inclusive infrastructure within sporting venues, a move deemed critical as India prepares to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and advances its bid for the 2036 Olympics. By spearheading this movement, Svayam aims to ensure that stadiums and public spaces are navigable not only for elite para-athletes but also for spectators with reduced mobility, reinforcing the necessity of universal design in the nation’s sporting future.
The event also served as a platform for Svayam to kick off World Accessibility Day celebrations. Following its recognition as a United Nations Day in 2023, the organization has been leading a global charge to have the day permanently added to the official UN calendar. Advocates argue that an annual dedicated day would serve as a global reminder that accessibility is a fundamental human right, uniting nations in the effort to ensure it is available to all who require it.
Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson of Svayam, emphasized that investing in accessibility offers returns that extend far beyond social inclusion, noting its profound impact on the national economy. “Accessibility is a basic human right for all and in a country where approximately 34% of the population is directly impacted by reduced mobility, proper accessibility integration is a must, especially when you consider the $ 200 billion economic boost it can generate for the country. By fostering universal design in public spaces and sporting events like the New Delhi 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix and future mega-events like CWG 2030, we can collectively unlock inclusive growth, empower millions, and build a truly accessible India for generations to come,” Jindal stated.
The Grand Prix, running from March 11th to 13th, features a diverse international field with athletes representing Nepal, Bhutan, Hong Kong, Serbia, Bosnia, and Egypt, alongside Neutral Para Athletes. Team India has fielded the largest contingent, with approximately 219 athletes competing across various track and field classifications. This high-profile participation is expected to solidify India’s standing in the global para-sport arena while setting new benchmarks for accessible sporting infrastructure.
