PM Modi Congratulates Indian Para-Athletes as India Creates History with 114 Medals at Asian Para Games 2026
India has achieved a historic milestone in para-sports, with its athletes delivering an exceptional performance at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Securing a record 114 medals, including 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze, the Indian contingent demonstrated remarkable determination, talent and sporting excellence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the medal-winning athletes during an interaction at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi on November 5, 2026. He praised their achievements and highlighted how their dedication has brought pride to the country. The interaction also recognised the growing contribution of para-athletes to India's international sporting success.
The achievement marks another significant step in India's sporting journey, surpassing the previous record of 108 medals won at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou. It also reflects the increasing opportunities, improved sporting facilities and support available to athletes across the country.
India's Remarkable Progress in Para-Sports
India's performance at the Asian Para Games has improved considerably over the years. Recalling this progress, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the country had won just 14 medals, including one gold, at the 2010 edition. The medal tally increased to 72 in 2018 and reached 108 in 2023 before rising to an unprecedented 114 medals in 2026.
This progress represents more than an increase in medal numbers. It reflects the determination of Indian athletes, the emergence of new sporting talent and the growing recognition of para-sports in the country. India's 168-member contingent included 61 debutants, demonstrating the expanding participation of athletes at the international level. The Indian team also recorded five world records and nine Asian records during the competition, further strengthening its position among Asia's leading para-sporting nations.
Outstanding Performances Across Sporting Disciplines
Indian athletes delivered impressive performances across athletics, badminton, archery and shooting. Para-athletics emerged as the biggest contributor, securing 65 medals, including 22 gold. Sandeep created a world record in the men's 400m T64 event, while Haney established another world record in the men's javelin F37/38 category.
Para-badminton contributed 16 medals, with athletes such as Nitesh Kumar, Naveen Sivakumar and Thulasimathi Murugesan delivering memorable performances. In archery, Sheetal Devi continued her impressive international journey by securing two gold medals. Para-shooter Mona Agarwal also achieved a notable milestone with two gold medals, including a world-record performance in the women's 50m rifle three positions SH1 event. These achievements demonstrate India's growing strength across different sporting disciplines and highlight the potential of its athletes to compete at the highest international level.
Government Support Strengthening India's Sporting Ecosystem
Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the importance of sustained efforts to develop India's sporting infrastructure and identify talent from the grassroots level. Initiatives such as Khelo India have helped expand sporting opportunities, encourage young athletes and strengthen the country's competitive sporting environment. Athletes associated with the programme also made a notable contribution to India's medal tally at the 2026 Asian Para Games.
The government has further focused on strengthening domestic sports manufacturing through the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme. The initiative aims to encourage innovation, research, skill development and the production of quality sporting equipment within the country. Such efforts can support athletes while contributing to India's ambition of becoming a stronger participant in the global sports industry.
Promoting Inclusion Through Sporting Excellence
The success of Indian para-athletes also carries an important message about inclusion and equal opportunities. Their achievements demonstrate that physical challenges need not limit an individual's ambitions when the right facilities, training and encouragement are available.
During his interaction with the athletes, the Prime Minister encouraged them to share their experiences with students and young people. Their personal journeys can inspire future generations to pursue sports, develop confidence and overcome challenges.
He also emphasised that the athletes should continue setting higher goals rather than treating their Asian Para Games achievements as the final destination. With the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics approaching, their performances provide encouragement for India's future international campaigns.
The MGMM Outlook
India’s record-breaking achievement of 114 medals at the 2026 Asian Para Games marks a significant milestone in the country’s sporting journey. With 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze medals, Indian para-athletes surpassed their previous record of 108 medals at the 2023 edition, demonstrating remarkable progress across multiple sporting disciplines. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s interaction with the medal winners recognised their dedication and contribution to national pride. The achievements, including five world records and nine Asian records, reflect the growing talent, determination and international competitiveness of Indian athletes, supported by expanding sporting opportunities and initiatives such as Khelo India.
Beyond the medal tally, this success highlights the importance of inclusion, equal opportunities and sustained investment in India's sporting ecosystem. Para-athletes have demonstrated that determination, discipline and access to proper training can help overcome significant challenges and achieve excellence on the international stage. Continued development of sports infrastructure, grassroots talent identification and encouragement for emerging athletes will be essential as India prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. These accomplishments not only inspire millions of young Indians but also strengthen India's ambition to establish itself as a leading force in global para-sports.
(Sources: India Today, The Indian Express, Times of India)
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