After Eight-Year Break, Asian Beach Games Return, India Eyes Strong Show In China

India is set to mark its return to the Asian Beach Games with a 31-member contingent competing in the sixth edition of the multi-sport event, scheduled to be held in Sanya, China, from April 22 to 30 .

The Games, organised by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) since 2008, bring together athletes from across the continent to compete in beach and coastal sports disciplines . This edition will feature events across 15 disciplines , with 62 gold medals up for grabs.

India will participate in selected events including 3x3 basketball, beach kabaddi, sailing, and beach wrestling , as the country looks to make a mark in niche and fast-growing beach sports categories.

The Asian Beach Games have not been held since 2016 , when the last edition took place in Da Nang, Vietnam . That year, India had sent a much larger contingent of over 200 athletes and returned with a total of 24 medals , including 2 gold, 4 silver, and 18 bronze .

The long gap in the event’s schedule was largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic , which disrupted international sporting calendars worldwide. The Sanya edition now marks the revival of the Games after nearly a decade-long pause, adding renewed excitement for participating nations.

For India, the 2026 edition presents an opportunity to rebuild momentum in beach sports and test emerging talent on a continental stage. While the contingent size is smaller this time, expectations remain focused on strong, disciplined performances across selected disciplines.

As competition begins, India will be aiming not just for medals, but also for valuable international exposure in a format that continues to grow in popularity across Asia.