Asian Para Games 2026: India Targets 100 Medals as Satyanarayana Backs Strong Athletics Campaign

India will aim to continue its impressive run at the Asian Para Games by targeting around 100 medals at the fifth edition of the continental event, with para athletics head coach Satyanarayana expressing confidence in the team's preparation and medal prospects.

The Games officially begin on Sunday, October 18, although some events, including table tennis, started a few days earlier. The competition will continue until October 24. India secured a record 111 medals at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou.

India targets 100 medals at the Asian Para Games 2026 as coach Satyanarayana backs the contingent, with Nishad Kumar among the key medal hopefuls.

India has sent a 168-member athlete contingent for this edition, compared to more than 300 athletes who represented the country at the previous Games. Despite the smaller contingent, the coaching staff remains optimistic about India's chances of achieving its medal target.

"We are targeting around 100 medals for India, and we believe our athletes have the ability and determination to achieve this. Para athletics will be a crucial part of our medal campaign. We are expecting to win six medals in athletics tomorrow, including two to three gold medals," Satyanarayana said.

The coach also expressed confidence in para high jumper Nishad Kumar, a two-time Paralympic silver medallist, who is expected to challenge for a medal and potentially set a new Games record.

"(Para high jumper) Nishad Kumar is also looking in good shape, and we are expecting him to deliver his personal best and potentially break the Games record. These are important opportunities for us to make a strong start to our campaign," he added.

Satyanarayana acknowledged that the competition would be challenging, given the presence of leading para-athletes from across Asia, but backed the Indian contingent to perform to its potential.

"The competition will be tough, with some of the best athletes from across Asia participating, but our athletes are well prepared and focused on performing to their potential, winning medals and making the country proud," he said.

He also praised the arrangements in Nagoya, saying the facilities, accommodation and overall support had helped create a positive atmosphere for the athletes.

"The athletes are extremely happy with all the arrangements here in Nagoya. The facilities, accommodation and overall support have helped create a positive environment for the team. The athletes are comfortable, motivated and focused on their events," he added.

The Indian contingent features several prominent athletes, including javelin thrower Sumit Antil, para-badminton champion Pramod Bhagat, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, para-archer Sheetal Devi and sprinter Simran Sharma.

(with PTI inputs)