In a historic move for gender diversity in para-sports, the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) has appointed India’s first woman Paralympic medallist, Deepa Malik, as the sub-regional representative for South Asia. This decision was announced during the APC’s 34th Executive Board meeting.

Deepa Malik’s appointment marks a significant step toward athlete-centric leadership within the APC and highlights the organization’s commitment to promoting gender equality in sports. She will assume her new role immediately, bringing her extensive experience and dedication to the position.

As the former president of the Paralympic Committee of India, Malik’s leadership and advocacy for athletes with disabilities have been exemplary. Her new role increases the number of female representatives on the APC Executive Board to five, setting a record for female representation in the organization’s history.

Malik expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am honored to represent South Asia in the APC. Together, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for para-athletes across the region.”

This appointment not only underscores Deepa Malik’s outstanding contributions to para-sports but also paves the way for a more equitable future in athletics. The APC’s commitment to increasing female representation in leadership positions will inspire many and help foster growth and development within the sport.

The APC’s focus on diversity and inclusivity reflects its ongoing efforts to elevate the status of para-sports throughout Asia, ensuring that all athletes receive the support and recognition they deserve.