SIDBI is now set to offer financial assistance to the PCI for the purchase of sports equipment.

The list of equipment includes javelins, badminton racquets, running shoes, discuses and shot put balls.

"We are very delighted to have SIDBI on board, which will benefit the athletes in their preparation for the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games," said PCI President Deepa Malik.

"As we look to have an athlete-centric organisation at PCI, our main focus is supporting our athletes in every way. 

"This new financial assistance will boost their training process.

"We are also hopeful that in the coming time, we will have more organisations joining us and supporting the Paralympic Movement in the country."

India has competed at 11 Paralympic Games and earned four gold medals, four silver and four bronze. 

A third of these came at Rio 2016, with Mariyappan Thangavelu triumphing in the men's T42 high jump and Devendra Jhajharia in the men's F46 javelin throw. 

Varun Singh Bhati also claimed bronze in the men's T42 high jump and Deepa Malik took silver in the women's F53 shot put. 

Preparations for this year's Paralympics, scheduled from August 24 to September 5 are continuing despite the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"After the COVID-19 pandemic had kept most of competitions and training at a halt, it is a crucial time for our para-athletes to get back their rhythm and attain peak ahead of the Games," said PCI secretary general Gursharan Singh.

"In this regard, SIDBI’s support is a great boost as the athletes chase their Paralympic dream."

Singh also thanked the PCI's other partners, including Hero Moto Corp, Cairn Foundation and CitiGroup.