New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed India’s record 114-medal performance at the Asian Para Games 2026, crediting athletes’ dedication and government initiatives for the country’s growing success in para-sports.
Interacting with the Indian contingent at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, Modi highlighted the country’s progress from 14 medals in 2010 to 114 this year, including 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze. The team also registered five world records and nine Asian records.
He noted that 34 of the 56 women athletes won medals, while 36 of the 61 debutants also finished on the podium. Indian athletes secured all three podium positions in four events and clinched nine gold medals on the final day.
Modi said initiatives such as Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) were producing results. Athletes supported under TOPS won 41 medals, while Khelo India beneficiaries secured 19.
With the 2028 Los Angeles Para lympics in focus, he urged athletes to begin preparations for the next challenge and inspire young people through interactions at schools and colleges.
The Prime Minister also announced the approval of the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme, with an outlay of over Rs 1,800 crore. He said India should aim to produce world-class athletes as well as sports equipment, apparel and footwear under the Made-in-India initiative.
Modi stressed the need to expand grassroots talent identification, sports infrastructure and opportunities for persons with disabilities.