Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF), as part of its ambitious programme to ensure a rich medal haul in the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo, presented ₹40 lakh-worth para equipment and funds to 15 athletes here on Sunday.
Pioneered by Aditya Mehta, a former Asian Games medallist and founder of AMF, ‘Mission 100’ campaign was launched to scout and coach 100 para athletes.
The entire money was raised through his 2017 Infinity Ride drive, an annual fund-raising event that saw cyclists from India and different parts of the world participating in a ride from Hyderabad to Tirupati two months ago.
Mr. Aditya said the objective was to raise funds for the para athletes and the reason for launching Mission 100 was to scout for the best, train, coach and support them at every step so that they can represent India at the highest platform and win more medals.
Some of those beneficiaries include world no. 20 in para badminton Abu Hubaida, India’s first female wheelchair tennis player Madhu Bagri, Asian para cycling team comprising gold and silver medallists Abhishek Singh Shekhu, Divij Shah, Rehan, Vicky Mehra, Arya Vardhan, Bala Chandra, Goutam and Gurlal Singh and bronze medallist Harinder.
In a welcome gesture, former world no. 1 para shuttler Anand Kumar was also presented with a sponsorship worth ₹2 lakh whereas each of the cyclists were presented with ₹4.5 lakh-worth hybrid cycles and Dura Ace carbon bikes for better results. Madhu Bagri, who has switched to cycling and is currently undergoing training for the upcoming Asian Championship, was given a high-powered hand cycle worth ₹3.5 lakh for her ongoing training.
Actor Regina Cassandra, who is one of the trustees of the AMF, and Advisor to A.P. Government K. Durga Prasad, graced the event. Also present was SATS VC & MD A. Dinakar Babu.
For her part, Regina expressed confidence that the AMF would achieve its objective given its sincerity and commitment. “I am confident we will do a lot more with Mission 100 with all your support in the coming days,” she said.
Film stars Nani and Sanjana Galrani also pledged their support for the AMF’s cause.
