Sachin Chamaria to Compete in Boccia at Aichi-Nagoya Para Asian Games 2026

Sachin Chamaria, an inspiring Boccia athlete, will represent India at the Aichi-Nagoya Para Asian Games 2026. After overcoming a life-changing spinal injury, he has become a six-time National Gold Medallist and a strong advocate for disability inclusion in sports. Sachin's journey highlights the importance of access and opportunities for athletes with disabilities. As he prepares for the Games, he hopes to raise awareness about Boccia and inspire more individuals to engage in sports. The Indian contingent will include 281 members, showcasing the country's commitment to supporting its athletes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 16, 2026, 17:18 IST

Indian Boccia Athlete's Journey to the Para Asian Games

Sachin Chamaria, an Indian Boccia athlete, has been selected to represent the country in the BC3 Individual and Pairs events at the upcoming Aichi-Nagoya Para Asian Games 2026. This decision follows the Sports Ministry's endorsement of two Boccia athletes for the Indian team. The Games are set to commence on October 18.

In 2008, a severe spinal cord injury left Sachin paralyzed in all four limbs, drastically altering his life. He discovered Boccia in 2021, which allowed him to re-enter competitive sports and set new aspirations, as stated in a press release.

An Inspirational Journey

Since taking up Boccia, Sachin has achieved remarkable success, becoming a six-time consecutive National Gold Medallist. He is also a passionate advocate for disability inclusion, striving to raise awareness about the potential sports hold for individuals with disabilities.

Sachin's Words of Gratitude

Sachin expressed his gratitude, stating, "I am thankful to the Sports Ministry and everyone involved in making it possible for me to represent India at the Para Asian Games. Wearing the India jersey is a significant responsibility, and I am committed to giving my best in both events. I hope this opportunity enhances the visibility of Boccia and inspires more athletes with disabilities to engage in sports."

A Decorated Career

At the World Boccia Challenger 2026 held in Cairo, Sachin secured a silver medal in BC3 Pairs alongside Sarita Dwivedi and a bronze in the BC3 Individual event. His international accolades also include a gold medal at the World Boccia Challenger in Bahrain in 2024, making him the first Indian male BC3 athlete to achieve this feat. Additionally, he earned silver in the individual event and bronze in pairs at the Cairo Challenger in 2024. Currently ranked 19th globally, Sachin holds the highest ranking among Indian Boccia players. His accomplishments have earned him the PCI Inspirational Sportsperson of the Year award in 2023 and the Indian Achiever’s Award in 2024.

Advocacy and the Future of Boccia

Through his sports career and advocacy efforts, Sachin aims to shift perceptions regarding disability and emphasize the need for access and equal opportunities. Boccia is a precision sport where athletes aim to place red or blue balls as close as possible to a white target ball, known as the jack. In the BC3 category, athletes with significant motor impairments utilize assistive equipment, including a ramp, with guidance from a ramp operator. The athlete is responsible for strategizing and determining the placement of each shot.

As he gears up for the Games, Sachin hopes his involvement will enhance the visibility of Boccia in India. He believes that broader access to appropriate facilities, equipment, coaching, and competitions is crucial for helping more athletes discover and excel in the sport.

Details of the Indian Contingent

The Indian team for the 5th Para Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026) will consist of 113 officials, including coaches, support staff, and a medical team, along with representatives from the national Paralympic Committee. The total size of the contingent has now reached 281 following the latest approvals.