India Prepares for 5th Asian Para Games 2026 with Reduced Contingent
Indian Athletes Set for Aichi-Nagoya 2026
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has approved a total of 168 athletes to represent India at the upcoming 5th Asian Para Games, scheduled to take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The entire contingent will consist of 281 members, which includes 168 athletes, 98 team officials and support staff, along with 15 contingent staff.
This year's contingent is notably smaller compared to the previous edition held in Hangzhou, China, where India sent 303 athletes. The Para Asian Games will occur from October 18 to 24. The reduction in the number of participants is attributed to the exclusion of events like Blind Chess, Para-Rowing, and Para-Canoeing, which previously included Indian athletes, as well as strict quota limitations imposed by the Organising Committee across various sports. In para athletics, the largest group from last time, which included 123 athletes, has been cut down to 62 due to these restrictions, according to a press release.
Athlete Distribution by Discipline
Among the 168 athletes, there are 112 males and 56 females competing in 11 different disciplines. The breakdown of athletes by discipline is as follows:
- Para Athletics: 62 athletes (46 Male, 16 Female)
- Para Badminton: 28 athletes (17 Male, 11 Female)
- Para Swimming: 16 athletes (14 Male, 2 Female)
- Para Shooting: 13 athletes (7 Male, 6 Female)
- Para Archery: 11 athletes (6 Male, 5 Female)
- Blind Football: 10 athletes (10 Male)
- Para Table-Tennis: 10 athletes (4 Male, 6 Female)
- Para Powerlifting: 8 athletes (4 Male, 4 Female)
- Para Judo: 7 athletes (2 Male, 5 Female)
- Boccia: 2 athletes (1 Male, 1 Female)
- Para Cycling: 1 athlete (1 Male)
The contingent will be supported by 113 officials, which includes coaches, medical staff, and officials from the National Paralympic Committee.
Leading the Contingent
Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel have been chosen as flag bearers for the Indian team during the Opening Ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games. This recognition highlights the achievements of two of India's most distinguished para-athletes, known for their excellence and determination in sports.
Pramod Bhagat, a celebrated para badminton player, has secured six medals at the Asian Para Games from 2014 to 2023, including two gold and four bronze medals.
Bhavina Patel, a prominent figure in para table tennis, has earned two medals at the Asian Para Games between 2018 and 2023, comprising one silver and one bronze.