India Shines at 2026 Asian Games, Ending Historic Droughts in Multiple Sports

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Deependra Singh

India Shines at 2026 Asian Games, Ending Historic Droughts in Multiple Sports

New Delhi, October 5 (Daily Kiran) : India showcased an impressive performance at the 2026 Asian Games, securing a total of 85 medals, including 21 golds. This edition of the Games was particularly historic for the country, marked by several significant achievements.

The Indian women’s hockey team ended a 44-year medal drought by clinching gold. Under the leadership of Salima Tete, the team delivered a stellar performance throughout the tournament. In a nail-biting final, India triumphed over China with a score of 1-0, marking the nation’s first gold in women’s hockey since 1982.

In mixed martial arts, India celebrated its first-ever medal in the sport’s history at the Asian Games, thanks to Suchika Tadiyal. Competing in the women’s 60-kilogram category, she secured a bronze medal despite losing in the semifinals, which prevented the country from achieving gold or silver in this event.

Soft tennis made its debut at the Asian Games, and India made a mark in this new sport. Jai Meena excelled in the men’s category, earning the nation its first medal in soft tennis with a bronze. Additionally, the duo of Satnam Singh and Salman Khan brought home India’s first medal in rowing, competing in the double sculls.

Anahat Singh made history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the finals in squash singles at the Asian Games. Although she missed out on gold, her silver medal win was a significant milestone. In pole vault, Barnika Ilangovan also made history by securing India’s first medal in this event, winning bronze.

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu ended a 28-year wait for a medal in the Asian Games, successfully claiming silver. Meanwhile, Sawan Barwal achieved another milestone by winning silver in the marathon, marking India’s first medal in this event since 1982.

These achievements highlight India’s growing prowess in various sports on an international stage, making the 2026 Asian Games a memorable chapter in the nation’s sporting history.

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