Ten-year collaboration to promote inclusive oral healthcare, empower dental professionals, and enhance sports readiness for Special Olympics Bharat athletes
New Delhi, August 12, 2025 –Special Olympics Bharat has entered into a landmark 10-year strategic partnership with the Indian Dental Association (IDA) and the Indian Academy of Sports Dentistry (IASD) to advance oral health and sports safety for persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). The agreement underscores a shared commitment to advocacy, awareness, and the provision of specialized dental care to promote inclusivity and equal access.
Through this collaboration, the three organisations will advocate for quality oral healthcare as a fundamental right for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Efforts will include raising awareness among dental professionals and the public, equipping practitioners with specialized skills, and fostering research and innovation in the field. Initiatives will also include “Krida Danta Suraksha” and dedicated sports dentistry support for Special Olympics Bharat athletes.
Dr. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, said, “We truly believe that IDA has recognised a matter of great urgency and with their help we will be able to help plenty of athletes and their coaches. We have always believed in promoting the sporting welfare of our athletes, and this is an important step in the same direction.”
Dr. Ashok Dhoble, Hon. Secretary General, IDA, stated, “IDA is committed to advancing oral healthcare and professional standards in the country, with a vision to achieve optimal oral health for all. Through this collaboration, we aim to empower dental professionals to address the challenges faced by people with IDD, ensuring they receive quality, inclusive care.”
Highlighting the sports dentistry dimension, Dr. Reena Kumar, Academic Director, IASD, added, “This collaboration marks a significant step forward in breaking down the oral health barriers faced by individuals with IDD. Together, we will improve athletes’ oral health and sports readiness, empowering coaches and support teams to safeguard athlete well-being both on and off the field.”
About Special Olympics Bharat:
Special Olympics Bharat is a National Sports Federation accredited by Special Olympics Inc., dedicated to promoting sports and physical activity among individuals with intellectual disabilities across India, fostering inclusion, empowerment, and community engagement.
About Indian Dental Association (IDA):
Representing over 90,000 members across 600 branches for 76 years, IDA is the voice of India’s dental profession. Committed to public oral health, IDA drives innovation in education, research, and advocacy, continually enhancing professional skills and standards.
About Indian Academy of Sports Dentistry (IASD):
An initiative of the IDA, IASD integrates oral health with sports medicine, offering specialized training such as the Orientation Course and Fellowship in Sports Dentistry to develop Team Dentists and establish Sports Dental Centres nationwide.
