The Asian Para Games 2026 have commenced in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, with India setting its sights on an ambitious target of more than 100 medals as the country’s para-athletes prepare to build on their historic success at the previous edition.
The fifth edition of the continental multi-sport event will continue until October 24, bringing together para-athletes from across Asia to compete in 18 sports. The opening ceremony was held at Nagoya’s Paloma Mizuho Stadium under the theme “WABI: We Are Beautiful Individuals”, celebrating individuality, diversity and the spirit of human resilience. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi welcomed the participating athletes and officials.
India enters the competition with renewed confidence following its record-breaking performance at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China, where the contingent secured an unprecedented 111 medals. The Indian camp is now aiming to maintain that momentum and deliver another landmark performance on the continental stage.
Para-athletics head coach Satyanarayana has expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, determination and competitive readiness, backing the athletes to mount a strong challenge across their respective disciplines.
India has dispatched a 281-member contingent, comprising 168 athletes and 113 officials and support staff. The athlete contingent includes 112 men and 56 women, who will compete in 11 disciplines, with the country seeking to translate its growing strength in para-sports into another impressive medal tally.
Leading the Indian contingent are para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat and sprinter Simran Sharma, who have been entrusted with the honour of serving as flag-bearers at the opening ceremony. Their presence at the forefront of the Indian team reflects the country’s growing stature and ambition in international para-sports.
The squad features several of India’s most accomplished para-athletes, including javelin thrower Sumit Antil, shooter Avani Lekhara, archer Sheetal Devi, sprinter Simran Sharma, badminton champion Pramod Bhagat and table tennis player Bhavina Patel. Their experience and achievements are expected to play a crucial role in India’s campaign.
Beyond the medal count, the Games represent an opportunity for Indian athletes to showcase their talent, determination and resilience against Asia’s strongest competitors. With a blend of established champions and athletes eager to make their mark, India will be looking to deliver performances that reinforce its position among the continent’s leading para-sporting nations.
