Sharmila Dhankar Celebrates Historic Gold at Commonwealth Games 2026

Sharmila Dhankar's Triumph at Commonwealth Games

New Delhi, August 4: Sharmila Dhankar, who clinched a gold medal in para-athletics at the Commonwealth Games 2026, expressed her immense pride in this significant achievement, describing it as a historic milestone.

She acknowledged the vital support from the government, which she believes has been instrumental in motivating athletes. Dhankar is determined to continue representing India, with her sights set on securing gold at the upcoming Asian Games, scheduled from September 19 to October 4, 2026, while also aspiring for a successful career in the Paralympics.

In the women's F57 shot put final, Dhankar achieved a season-best throw of 9.81 meters, earning her the gold medal. She finished well ahead of Ghana's Zinabu Issah, who took silver with a throw of 8.65 meters, while Nigeria's Eucharia Iyiazi secured bronze with 8.19 meters. Another Indian athlete, Shilpa, narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fourth.

"Winning this gold medal fills me with pride and joy. It marks a historic moment for me. The government's recognition and support for athletes is encouraging, motivating us to strive harder. My ambition is to represent India for many years. This is my first gold at the Commonwealth Games, but I am already looking forward to the Asian Games in Japan this October, where I aim to win another gold. Ultimately, my dream is to have a long and successful career in the Paralympics and continue to bring honor to my country," Dhankar stated.

On Tuesday, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, honored Indian athletes returning from the Commonwealth Games 2026, who showcased remarkable performances in boxing, judo, and para-athletics.

The medalists received cash awards of Rs 30 lakh for gold, Rs 20 lakh for silver, and Rs 10 lakh for bronze.

Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), commended the warm welcome extended to the athletes and praised Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for recognizing their achievements.

Reflecting on previous delays in cash awards for medalists, Jhajharia noted that timely recognition and rewards signify the government's increasing support for Indian athletes.

"Since the athletes arrived around 2 am yesterday, I have never seen such a warm reception at an airport. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya personally welcomed the athletes, making it a truly memorable occasion. I recall when I won a medal at the Paralympics in 2014, I mentioned to the Prime Minister that athletes often waited years for their cash awards. The Prime Minister had expressed that athletes should return home with a cheque in hand after winning a medal. Today, witnessing athletes being honored and receiving their rewards promptly fills me with gratitude. I commend the Prime Minister and the Sports Minister for their unwavering support for athletes," Jhajharia remarked.

Para-athletes contributed significantly to India's success, securing six out of 16 athletics medals, including three golds. Additionally, Jhandu Kumar's bronze in the men's heavyweight para-powerlifting category marked the best performance ever for para-athletes at the Commonwealth Games, totaling seven medals.

India concluded a remarkable Commonwealth Games 2026 campaign, finishing fourth in the overall medal tally with a total of 39 medals.