Asian Games 2026: India Clinches 85 Medals Including 21 Gold in Aichi-Nagoya

India showcased its sporting prowess at the 20th Asian Games, held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. Organized under the official slogan 'Imagining One Asia,' India secured a total of 85 medals, comprising 21 gold, 27 silver, and 37 bronze medals.

Archery led India's gold medal tally with five gold medals, followed by shooting and boxing, which each contributed three gold medals. India demonstrated strong dominance in team events, winning two gold medals each in cricket, hockey, and kabaddi. The men's cricket team defeated Pakistan by 19 runs in the final, while the men's hockey team retained its title by defeating Malaysia 5-1. Additionally, India earned gold medals in wrestling (2), athletics (1), and golf (1).

India sent its largest-ever delegation for this event, consisting of 501 athletes competing across 36 sporting disciplines. This contingent included over 300 athletes making their debut at the Asian Games. Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker and kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat led the parade of the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony.

Alongside the Asian Games, Japan is also hosting the 5th Asian Para Games from October 18 to 24, 2026, in which India will participate through the Paralympic Committee of India. This will mark India's fifth appearance at the Asian Para Games.

To bolster India's sporting journey, the government launched the 'KhelO Bharat Policy' on July 1, 2025, aiming for excellence in the 2036 Olympics. In the central budget for 2026-27, a record allocation of 4,479.88 crore rupees was provided to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Furthermore, the government has formulated a ten-year plan involving an investment of over 36,000 crore rupees to strengthen sports infrastructure across the country.

It is noteworthy that the history of the Asian Games is closely linked to India, having started in New Delhi in 1951. Conceptualized by Prof. G.D. Sondhi, these games were intended to rebuild unity and relations among Asian nations following World War II.