Indian Para Table Tennis Player Prachi Pandey Wins Bronze at Asian Para Games 2026

Gandhinagar, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Prachi Pandey, a para table tennis player representing the Sai National Centre of Excellence in Gandhinagar and the Khelo India program, has made history by winning a bronze medal in the women’s singles Class 9 event at the Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi, Japan. This achievement marks India’s first medal in this competition.

Ranked 17th in the world, Prachi faced off against Iraq’s Najla Al-Dayyeni in the semifinals. Al-Dayyeni, currently ranked 5th globally, is the reigning champion of both the Paralympics and the Asian Para Games. Prachi’s performance at this continental event is a significant milestone for Indian para table tennis, reflecting her determination, perseverance, and competitive spirit.

Born on January 15, 1993, in Uttar Pradesh, Prachi’s journey is an inspiring tale of dedication and resilience. She holds an M.Tech degree from Punjab Engineering College in Chandigarh. Before pursuing para table tennis full-time, she worked as a full-stack software developer from 2020 to 2023.

Despite grappling with a neurodegenerative condition that presents significant physical challenges, Prachi has consistently overcome obstacles to excel in her sport. Competing in the ‘Women’s Singles Class 9’ category, which is designed for athletes with severe physical disabilities, she has established herself as a leading player in India.

Prachi’s progress in sports has been marked by a series of impressive performances and accolades. She won the women’s singles title at the National Para Table Tennis Championships in both 2022 and 2023. In December 2023, she secured a gold medal at the inaugural Khelo India Para Games, followed by another gold at the Khelo India Para Games in 2025.

Her international journey includes multiple podium finishes on the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) circuit. Prachi earned her first ITTF medal at the 2023 Brazilian Para Open and has continued to win medals in international tournaments.

Among her achievements are a silver medal at the ITTF World Para Future in Gold Coast 2026 and bronze medals at the ITTF World Para Future 2026 in Nakhon Ratchasima, the ITTF World Para Challenger in Kaohsiung 2025, and the ITTF World Para Future in Costa Brava 2025. To date, she has amassed a total of 12 medals in ITTF ranking tournaments, including four silvers and eight bronzes.

Prachi’s success highlights the importance of continuous development and institutional support for athletes. As a player associated with the Sai NCOE Gandhinagar and the Khelo India program, she benefits from training, competition support, and facilities provided at the center. Financial assistance through the Annual Calendar for Training and Competition (ACTC) has also bolstered her preparations for international events. During the Asian Para Games 2026, she received ₹26,86,099 under the ACTC scheme.

Winning the bronze medal is a proud moment for Sai NCOE Gandhinagar, the Khelo India program, and Indian para table tennis. Prachi Pandey’s journey from engineering to success in the international sports arena exemplifies determination, resilience in the face of adversity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.