India's Athletes Honored Ahead of Asian Games 2026 Send-Off Ceremony

The Indian Olympic Association recently held a special send-off ceremony for athletes heading to the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. With motivational speeches from Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and IOA President PT Usha, the event aimed to inspire confidence among the athletes. A panel discussion featuring Olympic medalists highlighted the challenges ahead, particularly in competitive disciplines like judo. As India looks to build on its historic performance from the previous Asian Games, the contingent is poised to make the nation proud. This event marks a significant step in their journey towards excellence in sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 20:48 IST

Celebrating Team India's Journey to the Asian Games

On Tuesday, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) organized a special send-off event for the nation's athletes gearing up for the Asian Games 2026. This prestigious event will take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4. The ceremony united athletes, coaches, support staff, dignitaries, and partners, all rallying behind Team India as they prepare for their continental competition, as stated in a press release.

Encouraging Words from Leaders

During the event, Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed confidence in the athletes' abilities. He remarked, "Our nation is brimming with talent. With each passing day, we are progressing. We must transform pressure into performance, view opponents as opportunities, and turn those opportunities into achievements. I firmly believe our contingent will excel at the Asian Games and elevate our country's pride."

PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, also inspired the athletes, stating, "Do not let the occasion overwhelm you; instead, make it memorable. Reflect on your journey and recognize your hard-earned place among Asia's elite. Rather than feeling burdened by expectations, draw strength from them. Compete with confidence, courage, humility, and the belief that you can stand against anyone in Asia."

Insights from Olympic Champions

A significant aspect of the send-off was a panel discussion featuring Olympic medalists such as Swapnil Kusale, Commonwealth Games gold medalist Asmita Dey, weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav, and kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat.

Asmita Dey shared her thoughts on the challenges of competing at the Asian Games, stating, "The Asian Games are incredibly competitive. Judo originated in Japan, and my weight category includes world-ranked players. To secure a medal, I must prepare rigorously and be ready to face each of them."

Setting Sights on a Historic Achievement

The upcoming Asian Games 2026 will feature Indian athletes competing in various disciplines against the continent's top sporting nations. Following India's remarkable achievement at the 2023 Asian Games, where the country won 107 medals, both the IOA and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports are optimistic that this year's team is well-equipped to build on that success and return home with pride.

Support Staff and Coaches Present

In addition to the athletes, coaches and support staff were also in attendance at the send-off ceremony.