PM Modi Encourages Indian Athletes at Asian Games 2026
PM Modi's Supportive Message
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. May they perform their best, compete well, and shine!"
Flag-Bearers at the Opening Ceremony
The Indian contingent was led by kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat and Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games 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 team of 503 athletes across 36 sports.
Sehrawat, who was part of India's gold-medal-winning kabaddi team in the previous Asian Games, had the honor of carrying the national flag alongside Bhaker.
Bhaker, a double Olympic medalist, is one of India's standout competitors at the Games. She will participate in the women's 10m air pistol, women's 25m pistol, and the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team events. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she made history by becoming the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single Olympic edition.
'A Heartwarming Feeling': Manu Bhaker
In a video message prior to the ceremony, Bhaker shared that being selected as a flag-bearer filled her with a "heartwarming" sensation, prompting memories of her early days in the sport and reflecting on her journey.
"When I learned about my selection yesterday, I was flooded with memories from my beginnings. I never imagined I would reach this point in my sport. It is truly a heartwarming feeling. I feel immensely proud, honored, and incredibly happy to represent my country as the flag bearer. I want to express my gratitude to God and everyone for their love and support," she stated.
India's Medal Aspirations
India aims to surpass its previous medal tally from the 2022 edition, where the country achieved a historic total of 107 medals, comprising 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze.