Kamaljeet's Gold Medal Triumph at Asian Games 2026 Celebrated by SAI

Kamaljeet's impressive gold medal win in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the Asian Games 2026 has been hailed as a historic achievement by the Sports Authority of India. This victory, occurring just four months after the opening of the SAI centre in Varanasi, showcases the dedication and hard work of the athlete and the support team. The Indian duo not only secured gold but also broke the Asian record, inspiring fellow athletes at the centre. With a total of 19 medals, including two gold, India's performance at the Games continues to shine.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 25, 2026, 16:23 IST

SAI's Praise for Kamaljeet's Achievement

Shubhanshu Dwivedi, the Deputy Director of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) at the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Varanasi, commended shooter Kamaljeet for his remarkable victory in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the Asian Games 2026. Dwivedi expressed that this achievement is particularly significant as it occurred just four months after the Varanasi SAI centre commenced operations.

"This marks a truly historic moment for us, given that our centre has only recently opened. Kamaljeet joined our program in July, and achieving a gold medal in such a prestigious event within just four months is an extraordinary feat," Dwivedi stated. He emphasized the hard work put in by Kamaljeet and the entire team, adding, "The atmosphere here is filled with joy and celebration."

Record-Breaking Performance

Kamaljeet, alongside Suruchi Inder Singh, clinched India's second gold medal of the Games, finishing with a score of 484.6 points in the final. South Korea secured the silver medal with 478.0 points, while Iran took home the bronze with 415.8 points. The Indian duo also shattered the previous Asian record of 481.3 points, which was established by Uzbekistan earlier this year during the Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi.

SAI's Comprehensive Training Support

Dwivedi elaborated on the extensive support systems available to athletes at SAI facilities, which include sports science, nutrition, physiotherapy, psychology, and biomechanics. "Currently, SAI provides training at various levels. Grassroots training is facilitated through Khelo India Centres in every district, while SAI Training Centres, including four in Uttar Pradesh, offer intermediate training. The pinnacle is the National Centre of Excellence, which provides elite-level training. Here, athletes receive comprehensive support alongside their sport-specific training," he explained.

"We strive to offer world-class boarding, lodging, and nutrition. For shooters, we have physiotherapists to assist with overuse injuries, and psychologists to help maintain focus and commitment through regular assessments. Additionally, biomechanics experts work on improving athletes' physical balance and technical skills," he added.

Inspiration for Future Athletes

Dwivedi noted that Kamaljeet's success would serve as a source of inspiration for other athletes at the centre. "This is a significant celebration for us. Upon Kamaljeet's return from Japan, we plan to host a grand welcome ceremony. The presence of Kamaljeet, who has brought home gold from the Asian Games, is a tremendous motivating factor for our 138 athletes currently training here. This achievement will undoubtedly elevate their determination and motivation," he concluded.

Kamaljeet and Suruchi led from the start, scoring 103 points in the opening series and extending their lead throughout the final. They finished 6.6 points ahead of South Korea, with their total just four points shy of the world record.

As of the latest update, India’s medal tally stands at 19, including two gold, eight silver, and nine bronze medals.