The Prime Minister urged para-athletes to use their success in Japan as a foundation for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met with members of the Indian contingent at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi to celebrate their performance at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Japan. According to the Times of India, the athletes secured a record 114 medals, consisting of 30 gold, 35 silver, and 49 bronze.
Modi described the achievement as a sign of India emerging as a major power in global sports. He noted that the country's tally has risen significantly from the 14 medals, including one gold, earned during the 2010 edition of the Games.
The Prime Minister encouraged the athletes to target the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics as their next major goal. He stated that the government aims to have as many Indian players in Los Angeles as possible to secure more medals.
The campaign included five world records and nine Asian records. The contingent, which included 61 debutants, finished fourth in the overall standings. The Prime Minister also highlighted the contribution of women, noting that 34 of the 56 female athletes won medals.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse were also present during the interaction. The event featured several medal winners, including double gold medallists Sheetal Devi and Simran.
