'He Glows!': Para-Athletes Beaming After Meeting PM Modi, Vow Bigger Haul for LA 2028
India's Asian Para Games stars share emotional moments with PM Modi and pledge to boost the medal tally at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics.
India's triumphant para-athletic contingent from the Asian Para Games 2026 shared a deeply emotional and motivating encounter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. The meeting, held at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi, served as a celebration of India's historic performance in Aichi-Nagoya, where the nation secured a record-breaking 114 medals to finish fourth overall.
For the athletes, the interaction was more than just a formal ceremony; it was a source of immense inspiration that has now shifted their gaze toward the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games.
A 'Glowing' Experience: Nishad Kumar's Candid Moment
Double gold medallist Nishad Kumar, who dominated both the men's long jump T47 and high jump T47 events, expressed his sheer amazement at being seated in the first row right beside the Prime Minister. The experience left a lasting impression on him, not just professionally, but personally.
"The experience was amazing... It felt different. I had not thought that I would get the opportunity to sit in the first row," Nishad shared. In a light-hearted moment, he added, "We were wondering what does PM Modi eat that he glows like this. He looks the same. We would want to be like him when we are his age."
Nishad emphasized that such high-level recognition acts as a powerful catalyst, pushing athletes to maintain their momentum and continue winning for the country.
'Just the Beginning': Pranav Soorma on National Pride
Pranav Soorma, the gold medallist in the men's club throw F51, noted that every athlete dreams of returning home to the embrace of their country and the recognition of its leader. He highlighted the PM's message that the recent success is merely a stepping stone.
According to Soorma, the Prime Minister urged the contingent to keep working hard to touch even bigger targets. "It feels great when the PM of the country motivates, interacts and supports us. Para-athletes are getting immense support and love. These medals are for the entire nation," he stated.
Eyes on Los Angeles 2028
The conversation during the meet was not just about past glory but future ambitions. Ayush Verma, who secured gold in the men's shot put F53 and bronze in the javelin throw F53/F54, revealed that the Prime Minister explicitly challenged the athletes to increase India's medal tally at the upcoming LA 2028 Paralympics.
Verma described the interaction as a "unique experience" that provides the necessary self-motivation to push boundaries and improve India's global standing in para-sports.
A Tradition of Support: Ajeet Singh Yadav's Perspective
Silver medallist Ajeet Singh Yadav, who competed in the men's javelin throw F46, reflected on the evolving relationship between the Indian government and the sporting community. Having met the PM four times since 2019, Yadav noted that a new tradition of honoring athletes upon their return has been established.
Despite the busy schedule and current national climate, Yadav expressed gratitude that the Prime Minister took the time to meet them. "He remains ever-excited to meet athletes," Yadav remarked, adding that preparations for LA 2028 have already begun with the goal of returning for another celebratory meeting after winning more medals.