Ottobock signs agreement with PCI to provide cutting-edge prosthetic solutions, after-care support to para athletes
Ottobock signs agreement with PCI to provide cutting-edge prosthetic solutions, after-care support to para athletes
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), intending to enable athletes to excel at the upcoming World Para Athletics Championship, signed a collaborative agreement on Wednesday with Otto Bock HealthCare, a German company providing cutting-edge prosthetic-orthotic and wheelchair devices.
Ottobock, which has already been working with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) as its official technical service provider of the Games since 1988, hopes to bring to India a national network of 23 clinics to offer after-care support.
PCI CEO Rahul Swami said, “This monumental collaboration marks a watershed moment in the evolution of parasports in India. By establishing this alliance with Ottobock, we are implementing a novel framework that will systematically identify, develop, and elevate para-athletic talent from grassroots participation through to prestigious international competitions.”
The partnership will equip para-athletes with cutting-edge prosthetic solutions and specialised training. Ottobock will provide high-quality prosthetic and orthotic devices tailored to athletes’ needs, while a dedicated training program will upskill coaches and prosthetists to optimise prosthesis fitment and performance.
Mats Frank, managing director of Otto Bock HealthCare India said, “This affiliation with PCI enables us to strategically expand our impact, ensuring these innovative solutions become accessible to para-athletes throughout India’s diverse regions. Together, we will systematically implement a comprehensive performance structure that integrates specialized technical training, world-class mentorship, and psychological performance optimization, all essential components for sustained athletic development and international competitive success.”
The initiative will also focus on talent identification and development. Through PCI screening events and Ottobock clinics, young para-athletes will receive prosthetic solutions to enhance mobility and performance. Ottobock will provide free device repair service at major para-sport events, offering on-site prosthetic, orthotic, and wheelchair repairs.
Additionally, two-time Paralympic gold medalist Heinrich Popow will train 10 para-athletic coaches and five prosthetists in sport prosthesis techniques, strengthening long-term athlete support.
The partnership has already launched its first program, delivering technical support and maintenance services for athletes at the New Delhi 2025 WPA Grand Prix competition. Upcoming initiatives include a Running Clinic led by Popow, where 15 selected leg amputees, both established and emerging athletes, will undergo intensive training.
