A special felicitation gathering was organised at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi to honour the Indian sporting contingent returning home from the 2026 Asian Games held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted closely with the athletes, commending their exceptional determination on the international stage. He highlighted that raising the national tricolour with dignity represents the greatest source of pride for citizens, a mission carried out admirably by the sports delegation. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State Raksha Khadse, and Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha also participated in the celebratory event.
Fourth Place Finish and Impressive Medal Tally
The continental campaign proved to be a milestone journey for Indian athletics across multiple disciplines. Indian competitors collected a total of 85 medals throughout the tournament, comprising 21 gold, 27 silver, and 37 bronze medals. This overall collection placed India in fourth position on the continental leaderboard. China occupied the summit of the table with 341 medals, host country Japan secured second place with 260 medals, and South Korea took third position with 150 medals. Heartfelt gratitude was also conveyed to coaches, support personnel, and families who worked relentlessly behind the scenes. Notably, this gathering coincided with the birth anniversary of former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, whose inspiring life journey continues to motivate youth across the country.
Dominance of Female Athletes and Historic Hockey Double
A major highlight of the felicitation was the recognition of female athletes whose performances contributed substantially to the nation's success. Out of the 85 medals claimed by the country, women athletes secured 38, which included 11 gold medals. This remarkable showing reflects the expanding presence and resilience of women in sports across the country. On the hockey turf, national teams established a memorable legacy as both the men's and women's squads secured gold medals in their respective divisions. The women's hockey team concluded an agonizing 44-year wait for gold, signaling a definitive resurgence for the sport at the continental level.
“Sports teach us discipline, show us how to remain steadfast in pursuing goals, and help us adapt to changing circumstances.”
Excellence Across Cricket, Kabaddi, and Archery
In team sports and precision events, Indian players showcased commanding authority. Both the men's and women's national cricket teams replicated their previous achievements by capturing medals for the second consecutive tournament. On the kabaddi mat, the men's and women's squads dominated their opponents to claim top podium honours. The archery contingent delivered extraordinary precision by winning 5 gold medals. Simultaneously, sharp execution in shooting ranges alongside competitive drive in boxing rings and wrestling mats yielded vital podium positions for the contingent.
Breaking Multi-Decade Dry Spells in Emerging Events
The campaign extended beyond familiar grounds, witnessing maiden podium finishes in several newer disciplines. Athletes made history by earning India's first ever medals in events like mixed martial arts, soft tennis, and sailing. The shooting roster registered another significant milestone with its maiden gold medal in the women's trap competition. Furthermore, decades-long podium absences were finally brought to an end. In weightlifting, a silver medal arrived after a 28-year gap, while Greco-Roman wrestling witnessed its first silver medal in 64 years. In addition, the marathon discipline delivered its first podium success since 1982.
Heartfelt Interactions and Mementos Presented
The felicitation concluded with warm exchanges between dignitaries and medalists. Members of the national hockey squad presented Prime Minister Modi with a commemorative hockey stick and an official team jersey. The interaction extended to gold-medal-winning cricketers, wrestlers, archers, and track athletes, encouraging everyone to set their sights even higher for future international championships.
