The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Tuesday officially flagged off India’s contingent for the Commonwealth Games 2026 and unveiled the team’s ceremonial and competition kit ahead of the Games in Glasgow, scheduled from July 23 to August 2.
The send-off ceremony in New Delhi brought together athletes, coaches, support staff, senior government officials and corporate partners as Team India prepared to depart for Scotland aiming for another strong Commonwealth Games campaign.
Among those present were Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, IOA President P.T. Usha, British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron, Union Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh, Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao, Chef de Mission Rohit Rajpal and Deputy Chef de Mission Ravi Bengani.
Addressing the gathering, Mandaviya said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ,India is building a world-class sporting ecosystem that empowers our athletes to realise their full potential. Our athletes are the ambassadors of New India’s sporting excellence, determination and aspirations. As Team India embarks on its journey to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, I urge every athlete to compete fearlessly, uphold the highest spirit of sportsmanship, and give their very best. The Government of India stands firmly behind each one of you and remains committed to providing every possible support to help you bring glory to the nation.”
IOA President P.T. Usha said, “Today marks the beginning of another proud chapter for Indian sport. Every athlete wearing the India jersey has earned this opportunity through years of hard work, discipline, and sacrifice. As they leave for Glasgow, they carry with them the hopes of a billion Indians and the values that define our sporting culture. On behalf of the Indian Olympic Association, I wish every member of Team India the very best.”
British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron extended her wishes to the contingent, saying, “I was delighted to be able to extend my best wishes to Team India in person as they head to Glasgow. These Games will showcase not only athletic excellence but also the unity, diversity and enduring spirit of the Commonwealth. Sport is a hugely important part of the ties between the people of the UK and India. I know India is already preparing to welcome the Commonwealth sporting community to Ahmedabad for the centenary Games in 2030. We look forward to welcoming India’s star athletes to the UK and wish them every success.”
A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of Team India’s official kit, followed by a ramp walk by athletes showcasing both the ceremonial and competition attire. The event also featured interactions with current and former Commonwealth Games medallists.
Designed by Aaquib Wani , the official kit is based on the theme “Invisible Trajectories”, drawing inspiration from the rhythm and movement of athletes. The design incorporates spirograph-inspired patterns intended to represent precision, effort and excellence.
India will be represented by a 124-member contingent comprising able-bodied and para-athletes. The team will compete in 10 disciplines, including athletics, boxing, weightlifting, judo, gymnastics, cycling, lawn bowls and swimming, along with para-athletics, para-wheelchair basketball, para-powerlifting, para-swimming and para-track cycling.
The contingent will be led by Chef de Mission Rohit Rajpal, assisted by Deputy Chef de Mission Ravi Bengani, who will oversee Team India’s campaign throughout the Games.
