PM Modi Sends Best Wishes to Indian Athletes at Asian Games 2026
Prime Minister Modi's Encouragement for Indian Athletes
On September 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the Indian athletes competing in the Asian Games 2026, highlighting their exceptional commitment and perseverance.
In a post on the social media platform X, PM Modi expressed, "As the Asian Games kick off in Aichi-Nagoya, I extend my best wishes to the Indian contingent. Every athlete has put in tremendous effort and demonstrated outstanding dedication. India takes pride in them. I hope they perform their best, play well, and shine!"
Opening Ceremony Highlights
As the Asian Games commence in Aichi-Nagoya, my best wishes to the Indian contingent. Each athlete has worked incredibly hard and shown remarkable dedication and determination. India is proud of them.
May they give their best, play well and shine! pic.twitter.com/FYokK9OTWK
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 19, 2026
Kabaddi champion Pawan Sehrawat and Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker led the Indian team during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games held in Aichi-Nagoya on Saturday.
The event at Paloma Mizuho Stadium marked the official start of the 20th Asian Games, with India represented by a contingent of 503 athletes competing in 36 different sports. Sehrawat, who was part of India's gold-medal-winning kabaddi team in the last Asian Games, had the honor of carrying the national flag alongside Bhaker, a celebrated double Olympic medalist.
Manu Bhaker's Historic Journey
Bhaker, who secured two bronze medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics, is set to compete in the women's 10m air pistol, women's 25m pistol, and the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team events. She made history in Paris by becoming the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single Olympic edition.
In a video message prior to the ceremony, Bhaker shared her emotional response to being selected as a flag bearer, reflecting on her journey in the sport. "When I learned about my selection yesterday, I was flooded with memories from my early days. I never imagined I would reach this point in my career. It’s truly a heartwarming experience. I feel immensely proud and honored to represent my country as the flag bearer. I am grateful to God and everyone for their unwavering support," she expressed.
India's Medal Aspirations
India aims to surpass its performance from the 2022 Asian Games, where the country achieved a historic total of 107 medals, including 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze.