New Delhi, September 12 (Daily Kiran) : The Asian Games, which began in 1951 under India’s auspices, is set to celebrate its 20th edition in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. The Indian team is gearing up for a strong performance in this prestigious event.
In its inaugural edition, 11 countries participated, but today, all 45 member nations of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) regularly compete, along with some special invitees. India is among the select few countries that have participated in every edition of the Asian Games, showcasing the talent and prowess of its athletes on a global stage.
India made a significant mark in the first Asian Games, securing a total of 51 medals: 15 gold, 16 silver, and 20 bronze. In the most recent Games held in Hangzhou, the Indian contingent achieved its best performance to date, winning 106 medals, including 28 gold, 38 silver, and 40 bronze, ranking fourth overall.
Historically, India ranks fifth among the countries with the most medals in the Asian Games, having amassed a total of 778 medals over the past 19 editions. This includes 183 gold, 238 silver, and 357 bronze medals.
Athletics has been India’s most fruitful discipline, contributing 283 medals, including 85 gold, 102 silver, and 96 bronze. Other notable sports include shooting, wrestling, and boxing, where India has also excelled.
One of India’s most celebrated athletes, P.T. Usha, stands out in the history of the Asian Games, having won 11 medals—4 gold and 7 silver.
China leads the medal tally with a staggering 3,570 medals, followed by Japan with 3,242, South Korea with 2,425, and Iran with 611. Despite having fewer total medals, Iran surpasses India in gold medals, placing them higher in the rankings.
As the Asian Games 2026 approaches, India has the opportunity to surpass Iran in gold medals and improve upon its record from Hangzhou. The Indian team aims to set new benchmarks and continue its legacy of excellence in the Asian Games.
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