The Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India (CPSFI), in collaboration with World Abilitysport, is proud to announce the International Awareness Seminar on Classification in Para Sports, scheduled for May 29–30, 2025, at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
This first-of-its-kind event aims to transform the para-sports landscape in India and South Asia by addressing a critical gap—the absence of trained national classifiers. The seminar will play a pivotal role in promoting inclusive, fair, and competitive opportunities for para-athletes by laying the foundation for a national classification system.
Why Classification is Crucial
Classification is the bedrock of fair competition in the Paralympic movement. It ensures athletes compete in appropriate categories based on their functional abilities, not just the type or degree of impairment. Currently, India has no certified national classifiers, leading to limited access, higher costs, and delays in athlete development.
Key Seminar Objectives
• Increase awareness of classification systems in para sports
• Build a national pool of trained classifiers from the grassroots
• Promote self-reliance and reduce dependency on costly international classification
• Make classification processes accessible and affordable
• Provide career opportunities for medical and rehabilitation professionals in para sports
Who Should Attend
This seminar is ideal for:
• Doctors, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation professionals — perfect candidates to become classifiers
• Sports administrators, coaches, and para-athletes
• Professionals seeking careers in para sports officiating and international classification
What Attendees Will Learn
• The fundamentals and importance of classification in para sports
• Eligibility criteria and pathway to becoming a certified classifier
• Insights into training, certification, and long-term career prospects
• Opportunities for national and global engagement in the para sports ecosystem
Esteemed Global Experts
The seminar features leading international voices in classification:
• Craig Carscadden, IPC Classifier
• Penny Broomhead, IPC Classifier
• Dr. Halim Jebali, IPC Classifier
• Charmaine Hooper, CEO, World Abilitysport
Their expertise will guide participants in building a robust and sustainable classification system in India and beyond.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
Alongside Indian delegates, official representatives from Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Bangladesh will join the seminar, reinforcing regional cooperation in the para sports movement. CPSFI President Rajesh Tomar noted, “This seminar fulfills a long-standing goal since our recognition by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports — to promote classification awareness from the grassroots level. Building our pool of classifiers will lead to fairer competition, eliminate unnecessary costs, and reduce the risk of misclassification.”
