New Delhi : HL October 14, 2026
Delhi witnessed a landmark moment for the healthcare sector as more than 10,000 physiotherapy professionals and delegates gathered at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre to create a world record, recognised by the London Book of World Records. The historic gathering took place during the World Physiotherapy Asia Western Pacific (WPAWP) Conference 2026, organised by the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP) on September 26–27.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed the gathering and described physiotherapists as “Healing Hands”, recognising their vital contribution to patient recovery, mobility, rehabilitation and independent living. She highlighted the importance of physiotherapy in helping people regain movement and confidence following surgeries, accidents, injuries and serious health conditions.
The Chief Minister said that hosting more than 10,000 physiotherapy professionals from India and abroad was a proud moment for Delhi. She noted that the gathering reflected the growing importance of physiotherapy in healthcare and its contribution to building a healthier society.
London Book of World Records Recognises Historic Gathering
The gathering of more than 10,000 physiotherapy professionals under one roof received a World Record Certificate from the London Book of World Records. The achievement marked an important milestone for Indian physiotherapy, highlighting the profession’s expanding role beyond conventional rehabilitation into preventive healthcare, fitness, healthy ageing, disability prevention and functional independence.
The conference also coincided with the 70th year of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists, adding significance to the historic occasion.
Experts from 32 Countries Participate
The two-day international conference brought together physiotherapists, clinicians, researchers, academicians, educators and healthcare professionals from India and 32 countries.
The scientific programme featured 1,845 research papers and more than 250 keynote lectures and panel discussions. An international exhibition also provided a platform for sharing innovations, research findings and developments in physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
The event facilitated discussions on clinical practice, scientific research, healthcare education, movement science and the future of rehabilitation services.
Physical Inactivity Emerges as a Major Public Health Concern
The conference highlighted physical inactivity as a significant global public health challenge. According to figures from WHO reports presented during the conference, 31% of adults worldwide were insufficiently physically active in 2022.
The estimated prevalence of insufficient physical activity was reported at 49.4% among Indian adults aged 18 years and above and 74% among Indian adolescents aged 11–17 years.
These figures underline the importance of strengthening preventive healthcare and promoting regular physical activity alongside treatment and rehabilitation.
Experts emphasised that physiotherapy can play a wider role in helping people maintain mobility, improve physical capacity, reduce health risks and remain active throughout their lives.
Indian Physiotherapy Demonstrates Collective Strength
Prof. Dr. Sanjiv K. Jha, President of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists, described the world record as a historic recognition of the collective strength and unity of Indian physiotherapy professionals.
He highlighted the profession’s expanding contribution to prevention, fitness, healthy ageing, disability prevention and lifelong functional health. He also emphasised India’s professional capabilities, scientific expertise and potential to contribute to the global development of physiotherapy.
Dr. Ruchi Varshney, Organising Secretary of WPAWP 2026, said the gathering represented a shared commitment to the future of physiotherapy. She stressed the need to bring physiotherapy services closer to communities, schools, workplaces and primary healthcare settings so that movement and functional health become accessible to everyone.
Focus on Inclusive Fitness and Community Healthcare
The conference emphasised that fitness must extend beyond conventional exercise programmes and focus on movement, participation and functional independence.
Experts discussed initiatives to promote physical activity in schools, encourage active workplaces, strengthen community-based physiotherapy and improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
Special attention was also given to programmes supporting strength, balance, mobility and independence among older adults.
The discussions highlighted the importance of making physiotherapy services accessible and affordable across different age groups, abilities, income levels and geographical regions.
Yashobhoomi Conference Puts Indian Physiotherapy on the Global Stage
The WPAWP Conference 2026 brought Indian physiotherapy into the international spotlight through its unprecedented gathering, scientific programme and participation from professionals representing 32 countries.
With more than 10,000 participants, 1,845 research papers and over 250 scientific sessions, the conference highlighted the growing importance of physiotherapy in preventive healthcare, rehabilitation and inclusive fitness.
