Gujarat's Ram Singh Padhiyar Gears Up for 2026 Asian Para Games and 2028 Paralympics

Ram Singh Padhiyar, a Gujarat government officer, is training for the 2026 Asian Para Games and the 2028 Paralympics. With over 23 medals to his name, he highlights the support from the Gujarat government through various initiatives aimed at enhancing sports development. Padhiyar aims to win a medal for India at the upcoming Paralympics, expressing hope for uninterrupted training to focus on his performance. Discover more about his journey and the state's commitment to nurturing athletic talent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 7, 2026, 16:16 IST

Ram Singh Padhiyar's Journey in Para Athletics

Ram Singh Padhiyar, a dedicated officer from the Gujarat government, is currently training for the upcoming 2026 Asian Para Games and the 2028 Paralympic Games, proudly representing India in the realm of para-athletics. At 33 years old, Padhiyar works at the Gujarat Secretariat in Gandhinagar and practices at the SAG Sports Complex located in Nadiad. He specializes in long jump and high jump events, boasting an impressive collection of over 23 medals from both national and international competitions, including a bronze at the 2023 Asian Para Games and a silver at the 2024 World Para Athletics event.

Support from the Gujarat Government

Padhiyar highlighted the robust support provided to athletes by the Gujarat government, emphasizing initiatives like the Shaktidoot Scheme, which offers training and assistance to numerous athletes. He also mentioned Gujarat's selection as the host for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and India's aspiration to host the 2036 Olympic Games, noting that these developments are set to enhance the sporting ecosystem in the country and create more opportunities for athletes.

Officials have pointed out that ongoing investments in sports infrastructure and athlete development programs, particularly in para-sports, have empowered athletes from Gujarat to compete on both national and international stages. Dr. Mansukh Tavethiya, the District Sports Development Officer in Nadiad, stated that the Gujarat government has launched several initiatives, including the Shaktidoot Academy, COI, DLSS, In-School Sports Programme, and Khel Mahakumbh, aimed at identifying and nurturing sporting talent. These programs provide athletes with essential training, infrastructure, and facilities at no cost, enabling them to pursue professional sports careers.

Padhiyar's Aspirations for the Future

Looking forward, Padhiyar expressed his ambition to secure a medal for India at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, aiming to bring pride to Gujarat. He stated, "I am receiving excellent support for my training, and I hope to perform well at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. My only wish is that there are no obstacles in my training so that I can focus entirely on my game."