PM Modi Hails Para-Athletes; Says Journey From 14 To 114 Medals Reflects Hard Work

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised India’s para-athletes for their record-breaking performance at the Asian Para Games 2026. He said the rise from 14 medals in 2010 to 114 in the latest edition reflected their hard work, dedication and strong support system.

PM Modi interacted with the Indian contingent at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex. He congratulated the athletes for their achievements at the Aichi-Nagoya Games in Japan.

India won 114 medals, including 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze. The country finished fourth in the overall standings. Its 97 para-athletes also recorded five world records and nine Asian records.

“I had been eagerly waiting to meet all of you,” Prime Minister Modi said. He praised the athletes for winning medals and earning the admiration of millions of Indians. He also acknowledged the contribution of their families, trainers and coaches.

Recalling India’s performance at the 2010 edition, PM Modi said the country had won just 14 medals, including one gold. He described the rise to 114 medals as the result of athletes’ dedication and a strong support ecosystem.

The Prime Minister highlighted India’s dominance in four events, where athletes secured all three podium positions. He also praised the contingent for winning nine gold medals on the final day.

PM Modi noted that 34 of the 56 women athletes in the contingent won medals. He called their performance another major achievement.

India’s latest medal tally surpassed its previous record of 108 medals, including 27 gold, at the 2023 Hangzhou Games. The performance underlined the country’s growing strength in para-sports.

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