Ahmedabad Hosts Fifth International Sporting Tournament in Six Months; Para Archery Event Underway

September 5, 2026

Ahmedabad: Ahmedabad is hosting its fifth international sporting tournament in six months, highlighting the city’s growing sports infrastructure and expanding sporting ecosystem, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said.

The World Archery Para Series (WAPS)-2026 began at the Sabarmati Riverfront on Friday. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah virtually launched the championship, which is being held from September 5 to 9.

Gujarat expands sports infrastructure

Addressing the inauguration, Sanghavi said the growing frequency of international sporting events in Ahmedabad reflected the expansion of sports infrastructure and the development of a stronger sporting ecosystem in the state.

“This is not merely a competition, but a celebration of human potential and strong determination,” he said.

Sanghavi also highlighted archery as a sport with strong participation among young people from tribal areas, noting that several athletes from these regions have gone on to represent India.

He said Gujarat has allocated Rs 66 crore for sports in the 2026-27 financial year as part of efforts to develop a comprehensive sports ecosystem.

Khel Mahakumbh participation crosses 75 lakh

Sanghavi highlighted the growth of Khel Mahakumbh, an initiative started during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister.

According to Sanghavi, more than 75 lakh athletes participate in the event every year, reflecting the state’s growing participation in organised sports.

He also said an advanced Para Sports Training Centre is being developed in Gandhinagar. The centre will include facilities incorporating artificial intelligence and sports science to support para-athletes.

Sanghavi said Gujarat’s long-term goal is to establish itself as a global sports hub by hosting major international events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and, eventually, the Olympics.

108 archers from 19 countries compete

The World Archery Para Series-2026 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.

The competition features the Recurve Open, Compound Open, W1 and Visually Impaired categories.

During the event, World Para Archery champion Sheetal Devi was presented with the Para Archer of the Year award by World Archery Executive Director Juan Carlos Holgado.

The tournament will continue at the Sabarmati Riverfront until September 9, with Sanghavi appealing to people to attend the event and support the participating para-athletes.