Chennai: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and SBI Foundation have launched a Para Athlete Sports Scholarship Programme to support 100 para-athletes across India with financial aid and scientific training.

Under the scheme, each selected athlete will receive a monthly stipend of ₹40,000 to assist their preparation for national and international competitions. The initiative also includes scientific training through Acrophase, an IIT Madras Centre of Excellence for Human Performance, led by Prof Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam.

The programme, named SBIF PASS (Para Athlete Sports Scholarship), was launched on Thursday in the presence of SBI Foundation Managing Director and CEO Sanjay Prakash. He said the initiative aimed to provide recognition, resources and confidence to para-athletes, adding that their dedication and resilience were an inspiration.

“This 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,” Prakash said.

IIT Madras Dean (Alumni and Corporate Relations) Prof Ashwin Mahalingam said the collaboration reflected the institution's commitment to diversity and inclusion in sports. “The programme levels the playing field for para-athletes, helping them aspire, dream and grow on both the national and international stage,” he said.

The initiative aims to create a robust ecosystem for differently-abled athletes and build a strong talent pipeline for events like the Paralympics.