Asian Para Games 2026 open in Aichi-Nagoya as India targets 100 medals with 168 athletes

Key facts

• The fifth Asian Para Games 2026 began in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, and will run until October 24, featuring competitions across 18 sports.
• The opening ceremony was held at Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya under the theme 'WABI: We Are Beautiful Individuals', with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi welcoming athletes and officials from across Asia.
• India has sent a 281-member contingent, including 168 athletes (112 men and 56 women) and 113 officials, competing in 11 disciplines.
• India is targeting a 100-medal haul after winning a record 111 medals at the 2023 edition in Hangzhou, China.
• Para-badminton player Pramod Bhagat and sprinter Simran Sharma are leading the Indian contingent as flag-bearers.
• The Indian squad includes javelin thrower Sumit Antil, shooter Avani Lekhara, archer Sheetal Devi, sprinter Simran Sharma, Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel.
• The event will be streamed live on the Waves OTT app and Prasar Bharati Sports' YouTube channel.