Inspiring Moments: Indian Para-Athletes Interact with PM Modi

Indian para-athletes from the Asian Para Games 2026 had an inspiring meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised their achievements and motivated them for future competitions. The athletes shared their memorable experiences, highlighting the encouragement they received from the Prime Minister. With a record medal tally, including 30 golds, the contingent is now focused on the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. This interaction not only celebrated their past successes but also set the stage for future aspirations in para-sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 6, 2026, 01:49 IST

Memorable Meeting with PM Modi

On Thursday, the Indian para-athletic team from the Asian Para Games 2026 shared their uplifting experience of meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They expressed that his motivational words would encourage them to strive for greater accomplishments, particularly looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games.

During the gathering at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi, PM Modi congratulated the athletes for their remarkable achievement in Aichi-Nagoya, where India finished fourth, amassing a total of 114 medals.

Gold Medalists Share Their Thoughts

Nishad Kumar, a double gold medalist in the men's long jump T47 and high jump T47 events, described sitting next to PM Modi as a unique experience. He remarked, "It was incredible to be in the front row beside the Prime Minister. I never expected to have that opportunity. We were curious about what he eats to maintain such energy. We aspire to achieve similar success as he has at his age. Winning medals for our country will always be our goal." He emphasized that such interactions serve as motivation for athletes to continue their journey.

Pranav Soorma, who secured gold in the men's club throw F51 event, echoed similar sentiments, stating that meeting PM Modi was a memorable occasion. He noted, "The Prime Minister's encouragement inspires us to work harder and aim for greater heights. The medals we earn represent our entire nation. After achieving success on such a grand stage, the thought of meeting the PM again is exhilarating. He reminded us that this is just the beginning, and we must keep striving for excellence."

Encouragement from the Prime Minister

Ayush Verma, who won gold in the men's shot put F53 and bronze in the men's javelin throw F53/F54 events, described his meeting with PM Modi as a significant source of motivation. He stated, "Winning a medal is important for self-motivation, but interacting with the Prime Minister is a unique experience that encourages us to aim higher for the LA 2028 Games. He emphasized the need to increase our medal tally, urging every athlete to contribute to this goal."

Reflections on Support and Inspiration

Silver medalist Ajeet Singh Yadav, who competed in the men's javelin throw F46 event, expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister's ongoing support for athletes. He shared, "Since 2019, I have met him four times. PM Modi's commitment to sports has fostered a tradition of welcoming athletes back home. Despite the current challenges in the country, he took time to meet us, which is incredibly motivating. We are determined to win medals in LA 2028, and preparations are already underway."

Bhagyashri Jadhav, who earned silver in the women's shot put F34 event, found her meeting with PM Modi particularly special, especially after her previous experience as India's flagbearer at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she did not win a medal. She remarked, "This was my third meeting with the PM, and it felt wonderful. Winning a silver medal and meeting him again is an amazing feeling. The perception of persons with disabilities is changing; we are now seen as special rather than objects of pity."

A Historic Campaign for India

India concluded the Asian Para Games 2026 with an impressive tally of 30 gold, 35 silver, and 49 bronze medals, surpassing its previous record of 108 medals from the 2022 Hangzhou Games. The contingent consisted of 168 para-athletes, a significant reduction from the 309 who participated in the last edition, yet they delivered outstanding performances across various sports.

In para-badminton, reigning Paralympic champion Nitesh Kumar triumphed over fellow Indian Pramod Bhagat in the men's singles SL3 final to secure gold. Additionally, Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manasi Joshi clinched the women's doubles SL3-SU5 title. In para-archery, Harvinder Singh and Vijay Sundi won gold in men's recurve doubles, while Pooja Jatyan and Bhawna Choudhary earned silver in the women's event.

India also achieved world-record performances in para-athletics, with Haney winning gold in the men's javelin F37/38 and Sandeep claiming the men's 400m T64 title. The country swept all three medals in the men's javelin F42-F44/F61-F64 event, with Sumit taking gold, Mahendra Gurjar silver, and Sandip Sanjay Sargar bronze. Mona Agarwal made headlines in para-shooting, winning gold in the women's 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 and setting both world and Asian Para Games records. India's total of 114 medals marks its most successful campaign at the continental event, showcasing the nation's growing prowess in para-sports.