Soman Rana Celebrated for Historic Gold at Commonwealth Games 2026
A Hero's Welcome for Soman Rana
On Tuesday morning, Soman Rana, the gold medalist from the Commonwealth Games 2026, was greeted with enthusiasm at Indira Gandhi International Airport as the Indian team returned from a triumphant outing in Glasgow.
The Indian Army havildar made history by securing India's inaugural gold in the men's F57 shot put at the Commonwealth Games. He expressed his determination to focus on the upcoming Asian Games and the Olympics.
Upon his arrival in Delhi, Soman remarked, "This medal represents not just my achievement but also that of my country, the army, and my state. I am filled with joy. The Paralympics have gained significant recognition lately, and I am preparing to win more medals for India at the Asian Games and Olympics."
Soman's remarkable performance in Glasgow included a best throw of 13.40m, earning him gold in the men's F57 shot put final. His fellow athlete, Shubham Juyal, secured silver with a throw of 13.28m, marking India's first one-two finish in this event at the Commonwealth Games.
This victory not only signifies India's first gold in the men's F57 shot put but also underscores the nation's advancing prowess in para athletics.
For the 43-year-old athlete, this achievement is a significant milestone in his inspiring journey. Once a prominent amateur boxer, Soman's life changed dramatically in December 2006 when he lost a leg due to a landmine explosion while serving with the Gorkha Rifles near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
While rehabilitating at the Artificial Limb Centre in Pune, he discovered para athletics and joined the Army Paralympic Node in 2017. Since then, he has represented India at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, amassing an impressive record that includes a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games and a bronze at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
Both Soman and Shubham have benefited from the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which offers financial support for international competitions, coaching camps, equipment, and training.
India wrapped up a successful Commonwealth Games campaign in Glasgow, securing a total of 39 medals—13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze—finishing fourth overall. This result matched the fourth-place finish from Birmingham 2022, despite a significantly reduced sports program, with Ahmedabad set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.