India Finishes 4th at Asian Para Games 2026 with 114 Medals
India's para athletes received a warm welcome at New Delhi airport after a record-setting campaign at the Asian Para Games 2026. The fifth edition of the games was held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where the Indian contingent produced its best-ever performance.
The Indian team won 114 medals in all, including 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze. That haul earned the country fourth place in the overall medal tally.
At the airport, para-weightlifters and their coaches were welcomed with garlands and bouquets. Among those returning was Ashok Kumar Malik, who won silver in the 65 kg category.
Malik said he was overjoyed and found it hard to put his feelings into words. He said his next major target was the Los Angeles Paralympics, where he hopes to win a medal for India. He also thanked the Haryana government for its backing.
Other athletes who had competed in Japan also came back to a rousing reception. Avani Lekhara, a medal winner, said it was a privilege to win for the country again and praised the collective effort of the squad. She thanked the federation, SAI and fans for their love and support.
Srishti Arora, who also won a medal, called the moment a source of pride for her family, federation and country. Manish Narwal, another medal winner, said the welcome he received showed the support of the entire nation and thanked his family and coach for their role in his success.
The strong showing in Japan has raised expectations for Indian para sport ahead of the next major international competitions.
