Sharmila Dhankar Aims for Paralympic Glory in 2028

Sharmila Dhankar, a gold medalist from the Commonwealth Games, is determined to achieve gold and set a world record at the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. After overcoming significant personal challenges, she is now focused on her training for the Para Asian Games. India's impressive performance at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, where they secured 39 medals, is a testament to the country's growing prowess in sports. With Ahmedabad set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, the future looks bright for Indian athletes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 13:36 IST

From Challenges to Triumph

Sharmila Dhankar, a gold medalist from the Commonwealth Games, is focused on achieving a gold medal and setting a world record at the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles, USA. During an event hosted by State Bank of India (SBI) Life Insurance, she shared her inspiring journey from overcoming domestic violence to winning gold in the women's shot put F57 category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Expressing her gratitude towards SBI for honoring para-athletes, Dhankar remarked, "It feels wonderful. SBI is showing immense respect to all medalists and Paralympians. I appreciate their support. My life has transformed significantly; it was quite different before."

The 40-year-old athlete is diligently preparing for the upcoming Para Asian Games in October, determined not to return without a medal. "My goal is the Paralympics. I aim to bring home gold along with a world record," she concluded.

India's Performance at Glasgow 2026

India concluded its Commonwealth Games journey in Glasgow with a total of 39 medals: 13 gold, 17 silver, and 9 bronze, securing the fourth position in the overall medal tally.

Ahmedabad Set to Host 2030 Commonwealth Games

The Glasgow Games wrapped up after 11 days of competition, with Scotland officially transferring the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton to India, which will host the centenary edition of the event in Ahmedabad in 2030.

The baton and flag were handed over to Indian representatives, including Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha, and Gujarat's Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi during the closing ceremony.

Ahmedabad will be the second Indian city to host the Commonwealth Games, following New Delhi's hosting in 2010.

Despite sending a smaller team of 122 athletes to Glasgow compared to 210 in Birmingham 2022, India maintained its fourth-place finish and improved its medal conversion rate, with 38 athletes returning home with medals.

Long-distance runner Gulveer Singh stood out as the only Indian athlete to secure two medals at the Games.