The **Physiotherapists Association**, established in 1955, is the largest and oldest professional membership organization for physiotherapists in India. Registered in Mumbai with its head office in New Delhi, the IAP represents more than 100,000 physiotherapists, with 50,000 active members practicing in various capacities across the country.
The Physiotherapist Association has a long-standing commitment to promoting the welfare, education, and development of physiotherapists in India. Over the decades, it has played a key role in establishing ethical standards and promoting high professional practices within the field. The association has consistently advocated for improvements in the healthcare system and worked to ensure that physiotherapists have the resources and support they need to deliver high-quality care.
The organization’s primary goals include creating a unified body for physiotherapists, promoting evidence-based practices, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. It organizes numerous events, including conferences, seminars, workshops, and educational programs to support professional development. It also publishes journals, newsletters, and other materials to keep its members informed about the latest developments in physiotherapy.
Through active collaboration with government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and other professional associations, the Physiotherapist Association works to influence healthcare policies that benefit both physiotherapists and the broader community. The IAP has been instrumental in advocating for the establishment of regulatory frameworks to ensure that physiotherapy education and practice are held to high standards.
In recent years, the Physiotherapist Association has evolved to include over 21 sub-committees, each focusing on different aspects of the profession, including research, innovation, education, and corporate relations. The association also has 36 state branches and more than 450 district-level branches, creating a robust and wide-reaching network that connects physiotherapists across India.
The Physiotherapist Association’s commitment to gender equality is evident through its Women's Cell, a unique platform that supports female physiotherapists in their academic, clinical, and social pursuits. This initiative continues to foster a strong sense of community and empowerment for women in the physiotherapy profession.
As the Physiotherapist Association moves forward, it aims to expand its influence and membership, with the goal of becoming the largest healthcare association by 2025. Through its Vision 2025 initiative, the association is focusing on the growth and professional development of physiotherapists, as well as the advancement of physiotherapy education and practice on a global scale.