From 14 Medals in 2010 to 114 in 2026: PT Usha Hails India's Historic Rise at Asian Para Games

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha has hailed India's para-athletes for delivering their best-ever performance at the Asian Para Games, saying their determination and resilience would inspire millions to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

India finished fourth in the overall medal standings with 114 medals - 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze, surpassing its previous best of 108 medals at the 2023 Hangzhou Games. The achievement was particularly significant as India competed in Japan with a contingent of just 168 athletes, nearly half the size of its squad at the previous edition.

India's rise in para-sports has been remarkable, with its medal tally climbing from just 14 medals in 2010 to a record 114 in 2026. Hailing the achievement, Usha praised the athletes' phenomenal display of grit, determination and brilliance, saying their unyielding spirit would inspire millions across the country to chase their dreams against all odds. She also congratulated the athletes, coaches and support staff for their contribution to the historic campaign.

Para-athletics emerged as India's biggest medal contributor, accounting for 65 medals - 22 gold, 19 silver and 24 bronze. The tally was 12 medals higher than the country's performance in the discipline at the 2023 edition.

Para-badminton added 16 medals, including three gold, five silver and eight bronze, while para-swimming contributed another 11 medals. India also secured three gold medals in para-archery, underlining its success across multiple disciplines.

At the 2023 Hangzhou Games, India had won 108 medals, including 27 gold, establishing a benchmark that the contingent has now surpassed in Japan.

In comparison, India's able-bodied athletes secured 85 medals at the Asian Games, comprising 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze, 21 fewer than their tally at the previous edition.

The latest achievement marks another milestone for Indian para-sports, reflecting the athletes' growing competitiveness and the country's expanding presence on the continental stage.