India's Historic Haul: 114 Medals at Asian Para Games 2026
India secures a historic 114 medals at the Asian Para Games 2026. Sports Minister Mandaviya credits PM Modi's vision for the record-breaking haul.
India has scripted history at the Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, securing an unprecedented tally of 114 medals. This record-breaking performance saw the nation climb to fourth place in the overall standings, marking a monumental leap in the country's para-sports trajectory.
To celebrate this achievement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the returning Indian contingent at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi. During the event, the Prime Minister congratulated the athletes for their grit and determination, leaving the contingent feeling honored and valued.
The Vision Behind the Victory
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya attributed this transformation to the leadership and vision of Prime Minister Modi. Speaking after the interaction, Mandaviya emphasized that the government's strategic investment in sports has been a game-changer.
The Minister revealed that a comprehensive five-year sports development plan was implemented with a massive provision of Rs 36,000 crore. He noted that the sports sector serves as a prime example of how visionary leadership can fundamentally change the landscape of national achievement.
"In 2014, we stood at the 15th position, but today, by securing the fourth position in Asian Para Games 2026, we have brought pride to India," Mandaviya stated, highlighting the rapid ascent of the nation on the continental stage.
Equality in Sports: Para-Athletes on Par
A key highlight of the Minister's address was the shift toward equality between able-bodied and para-athletes. Mandaviya noted that initiatives like the Khelo India Para Games have ensured that para-athletes receive the same status, opportunities, and support as any other athlete in the country.
He further detailed the broader government approach to fitness and talent scouting, mentioning:
- Fit India Movement: Launched to spark a nationwide sports movement.
- Khelo India Scheme: A strategic advancement of the fitness movement.
- Financial Support: Over 3,000 athletes under the Khelo India initiative currently receive an annual support grant of Rs 7 lakh each.
Breaking Down the Medal Tally
India's performance in Aichi-Nagoya was not just about quantity but quality. The country surpassed its previous best of 108 medals from the 2022 Hangzhou edition, achieving a total of 114 medals, comprising:
- Gold: 30
- Silver: 35
- Bronze: 49
Remarkably, this feat was achieved with a leaner contingent of 168 para-athletes, compared to the 309 athletes who represented India in the previous Games.
Landmark Performances and World Records
The campaign was defined by several stellar individual and team performances across various disciplines:
Para-Athletics & Shooting
India witnessed world-record performances in para-athletics. Haney secured gold in the men's javelin F37/38, while Sandeep claimed the men's 400m T64 title. In a dominant display, India swept all three medals in the men's javelin F42-F44/F61-F64 event, with Sumit (Gold), Mahendra Gurjar (Silver), and Sandip Sanjay Sargar (Bronze).
In para-shooting, Mona Agarwal delivered a landmark performance, winning gold in the women's 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 and setting both world and Asian Para Games records.
Para-Badminton & Archery
The badminton courts saw high drama as reigning Paralympic champion Nitesh Kumar defeated his compatriot Pramod Bhagat in the men's singles SL3 final to take gold. In the women's doubles SL3-SU5, Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manasi Joshi clinched the title.
In para-archery, the duo of Harvinder Singh and Vijay Sundi won gold in the men's recurve doubles, while Pooja Jatyan and Bhawna Choudhary earned a silver medal for the women's event.