Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma launches India’s preparations for the 11th International Abilympics, to be held in Finland in 2027, at an event in Mumbai. The programme is organised by Sarthak Educational Trust and held at the World Trade Center Mumbai, alongside pre-international assessments for the Finland 2027 edition and the trust’s 18th Foundation Day celebrations. The launch marks the start of India’s “Road to” campaign, aimed at sending what organisers say will be the country’s largest-ever contingent to the global Work Skill Olympics for persons with disabilities.
The event includes assessments and training across 28 internationally recognised vocational skill categories such as information technology, hospitality, creative arts, crafts and service trades. Around 30 national Abilympics champions display their skills at an exhibition covering areas including photography, bakery, hospitality, tailoring and digital technologies. Participants from government, industry and academia discuss inclusive hiring, skill development, the role of technology and artificial intelligence, and the need for continuous upskilling as work changes.
Organisers also cite India’s performance at the 10th Abilympics in Metz, France, and announce support initiatives such as a six-month mentorship programme for selected participants by the Tata Power Community Development Trust.