How the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation is Transforming Disability Golf in India
When Indian adaptive golfers stood proudly on the podium at the Czech Disabled Golf Masters 2026, the medals represented far more than sporting success. They marked the coming of age of adaptive golf in India and reflected years of perseverance, collaboration and a shared belief that every individual, regardless of physical ability, deserves the opportunity to experience the game of golf.
The recent success saw Vishwa Vardhan Bhati finish Runner-Up and Ankush Saha, competing in his very first EDGA event, secure Third Place in the Nett Stroke Play category at one of Europe’s premier adaptive golf tournaments. Their performances announced something significant, not just that Indian golfers with disabilities can compete internationally, but that they can compete with the very best.
These podium finishes are the result of a movement that has quietly gathered momentum over the past few years.
Recognising that persons with disabilities in India had little opportunity to discover, learn and compete in golf, the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation (AGAF) was established with a vision to create an inclusive ecosystem for adaptive golf. Rather than focusing only on tournaments, the Foundation has worked to build pathways by engaging golf clubs, coaches, rehabilitation professionals, volunteers, classifiers, families and the wider golfing community.
This vision took shape through awareness programmes, player development initiatives and, most notably, the successful launch of the India Adaptive Golf Open 2026,India’s first major adaptive golf championship exclusively for persons with disabilities. More than a tournament, it demonstrated that adaptive golf has a place in India’s sporting landscape and inspired many players to believe that international competition was within reach.
That belief became reality in Prague.
Reflecting on the Foundation’s journey, Chandrashekar Kini, Director of the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation, said:
“When we started the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation, our dream was never just to organise tournaments. Our dream was to create opportunities. Every golfer who steps onto the course reminds us why this mission matters,that talent has no disability when opportunity exists”.
Kini also believes golf has enormous potential as a rehabilitation sport, particularly for individuals recovering from life-changing injuries, including veterans disabled in the service of the nation. He hopes that with continued support from golf clubs, sponsors, governments and sporting bodies, India can build a sustainable adaptive golf ecosystem and, one day, make a significant impact should golf become part of the Paralympic Games.
Adding another perspective, Bhalendu Singh, Director of the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation, said:
“Adaptive golf is much more than a sport. It restores confidence, independence and a sense of belonging. Having seen the transformative role sport plays in rehabilitation, I believe golf offers people with disabilities an opportunity not just to compete, but to rediscover what they are capable of. Our goal is to ensure that every person who wishes to experience the game has that opportunity”.
Speaking about the Foundation’s growing work across the country, Kavery Muthanna, said:
“Every player who joins us strengthens this movement. Behind every tournament and every international appearance is an ecosystem of families, coaches, volunteers, golf clubs and supporters working together. Our focus is to build that pathway across India so that adaptive golfers have access to opportunities, coaching and competitive platforms, regardless of where they come from.”
For Vishwa Vardhan Bhati and Ankush Saha, the medals represent personal milestones, but for the Foundation they are only the beginning. The larger goal remains creating opportunities for every aspiring adaptive golfer in India, ensuring that disability is never a barrier to participation, competition or excellence.
The Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation acknowledges the support of GoSports Foundation, Genesis IT Innovations Limited, Bangalore Golf Club, To the Tee Academy, volunteers, officials and numerous well-wishers whose belief has helped this movement grow.
As adaptive golf continues to expand across India, the Foundation invites individuals with intellectual disabilities, locomotor disabilities and visual impairments who are interested in taking up the sport to connect with the Foundation.
To learn more about adaptive golf, read inspiring player stories, or explore opportunities to participate, visit www.adaptivegolfalliance.com.
Because every golfer deserves the opportunity to stand on the first tee,and perhaps one day, on an international podium.
Ankush Saha and Vishwa Vardhan Bharti returned with podium finishes in the Czech Republic
Join our WhatsApp Group for News and Article Alerts
