Indian Armed Forces Athletes Shine at Asian Games with Historic Medal Wins

Celebrating Success at the Asian Games

New Delhi, October 12: On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh honored athletes from the Armed Forces who achieved remarkable success at the recent Asian Games held in Japan, bringing home a total of 27 medals—six Gold, eleven Silver, and ten Bronze.

Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, was also present at the event, which recognized the Services' outstanding performance at this prestigious international competition, as stated in a release from the Ministry of Defence.

A total of 92 athletes from the three branches of the Armed Forces participated across 19 sports, significantly contributing to India's impressive fourth-place finish. The Indian team overall secured 85 medals, including 21 Gold, 27 Silver, and 37 Bronze.

The athletes from the Services represented 32% of India's total medal count and 28.57% of the Gold medals.

Notable Performers and Historic Achievements

Among the exceptional athletes was Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda, who earned two Gold medals and one Silver, making history as the first Indian woman to win Gold in the individual women's Trap event at the Games.

Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh also made headlines by winning two Silver medals and one Bronze, becoming the first Indian male track-and-field athlete to achieve three individual medals in a single Asian Games.

Havildar Sawan Barwal secured Silver in the men's marathon with a national record time of 2:11:37, ending a 44-year wait for a marathon medal for India at the Asian Games. Additionally, Naib Subedar Sarvesh Kushare made history in the men's high jump, marking India's first medal in this event in 56 years.

Words of Encouragement and Future Aspirations

During the event in New Delhi, Singh praised the athletes for their discipline, hard work, and team spirit, emphasizing that the path to winning medals requires immense dedication, early training sessions, and the ability to balance military duties with sports commitments.

He encouraged athletes who participated but did not win, stating that true defeat lies in giving up, and highlighted that every participant contributed to the honor of the country and the Defence Forces.

Singh expressed confidence in the potential of Services athletes, asserting that their achievements would inspire future generations.

Commitment to Enhancing India's Sporting Landscape

He acknowledged the crucial role of the Mission Olympic Wing in identifying and nurturing talented athletes, providing them with scientific training and world-class facilities to prepare for international competitions.

Singh also recognized the invaluable contributions of coaches, support staff, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and the families of athletes, stressing that champions are not made in isolation.

Reiterating the commitment of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government to bolster India's sporting ecosystem, he emphasized the focus on infrastructure, modern training facilities, and improved opportunities for athletes.

Singh stated that the goal is not only to increase participation but to position India as a formidable force in the global sports arena.

Looking Ahead to the 2028 Olympics

On the significant role of the Services in Indian sports, Singh noted that the Defence Forces have consistently produced athletes distinguished by their physical abilities, discipline, and leadership in challenging situations.

He called for a systematic approach towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, urging trainers and support staff to continue their dedicated guidance to athletes.

Singh encouraged them to set higher aspirations and aim for even better performances at the upcoming Olympics.

Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth and other senior officials were also in attendance at the event.