New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitated sportspersons from the Indian Defence Forces on October 12, 2026, for their record-breaking performance at the recently concluded 2026 Asian Games in Japan. The Services athletes won a total of 27 medals, comprising six gold, 11 silver and 10 bronze, marking the best-ever performance by the Services at the prestigious international sporting event.
Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi also attended the felicitation ceremony held in New Delhi to celebrate the athletes’ achievements.
A total of 92 athletes from the three Services competed across 19 sporting disciplines and made a significant contribution to India’s fourth-place finish at the Games. The Indian contingent secured 85 medals overall, including 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze.
Rajnath Singh Praises Athletes’ Discipline and Dedication
Interacting with the athletes, Rajnath Singh credited their success to discipline, hard work, team spirit and sporting excellence. He highlighted the dedication required to compete at the international level, noting that an athlete’s journey involves early-morning training, gym sessions, injuries, recovery and consistent effort.
The Raksha Mantri also acknowledged the challenges faced by sportspersons who balance their military duties with rigorous sports preparations while often staying away from their families.
Addressing athletes who participated in the Games but did not win medals, Singh emphasised that true defeat comes from giving up. He said every participant had contributed to bringing honour to the country and the Defence Forces in one way or another.
He expressed confidence in the potential of Services athletes and said their achievements would continue to motivate and inspire future generations.
Mission Olympic Wing’s Role in Services Athletes’ Success
Rajnath Singh highlighted the important role played by the Mission Olympic Wing in identifying talented sportspersons, developing their abilities and preparing them for international competitions.
The initiative supports athletes through scientific training, world-class sports facilities and systematic preparation to help them compete at the highest level.
The Raksha Mantri also recognised the contributions of coaches, support staff, physiotherapists, nutritionists and athletes’ families. He stressed that a champion’s success is never achieved in isolation and depends on the collective efforts of everyone involved in the athlete’s journey.
Government Focuses on Strengthening India’s Sporting Ecosystem
Singh reiterated the Narendra Modi-led government’s commitment to strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem through sustained investment in sports infrastructure, modern training facilities and improved opportunities for athletes.
He underlined that the country’s objective goes beyond increasing participation in sports. India aims to establish itself as a leading power in the global sporting arena by developing talent and improving performance at major international competitions.
The Raksha Mantri also highlighted the Defence Forces’ longstanding contribution to Indian sports. He noted that Services athletes are recognised not only for their physical abilities but also for their discipline, patience, leadership and determination to achieve their goals under challenging circumstances.
Rajnath Singh Calls for Preparation for Los Angeles Olympics 2028
Looking ahead, Rajnath Singh called for a focused and systematic approach to preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
He urged trainers and support staff to continue guiding athletes with dedication and professionalism. He also encouraged the sportspersons to set higher targets and aim for an even stronger performance at the next Olympic Games.
The ceremony was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth and other senior officials.
Services Athletes Contribute 32% of India’s Medal Tally
The Services contingent played a significant role in India’s performance at the 2026 Asian Games. According to the details shared at the event, Services athletes accounted for 32% of India’s total medal tally and 28.57% of its gold medals.
Several athletes delivered outstanding performances and achieved significant milestones.
Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda Wins Two Gold Medals
Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda emerged as one of the standout performers, winning two gold medals and one silver medal.
She also became the first Indian woman to win gold in the individual Women’s Trap event at the Asian Games, marking a historic achievement for Indian shooting.
Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh Secures Three Medals
Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh won two silver medals and one bronze medal at the Games.
His performance made him the first Indian male track-and-field athlete to win three individual medals at a single edition of the Asian Games.
Havildar Sawan Barwal Ends India’s 44-Year Wait for a Marathon Medal
Havildar Sawan Barwal won silver in the Men’s Marathon with a national-record timing of 2:11:37.
His achievement ended India’s 44-year wait for an Asian Games marathon medal and marked a major milestone in the country’s long-distance running history.
Naib Subedar Sarvesh Kushare Achieves High Jump Milestone
Naib Subedar Sarvesh Kushare secured a historic medal in the Men’s High Jump, ending a 56-year wait for India to win a medal in the event at the Asian Games.
His performance further highlighted the growing contribution of Services athletes to India’s success across different sporting disciplines.
Services Athletes Strengthen India’s Sporting Achievements
The Services contingent’s record 27-medal haul at the 2026 Asian Games reflects the contribution of the Defence Forces to India’s sporting achievements. Their performances across 19 disciplines helped the country secure fourth place in the overall standings.
The felicitation ceremony recognised not only the medal winners but also the dedication of all athletes, coaches and support teams who contributed to the campaign. With preparations for the Los Angeles Olympics 2028 on the horizon, the Services’ performance provides a strong foundation for setting higher sporting goals.
About the Indian Defence Services and Sports
The Indian Defence Services have played an important role in promoting sports and nurturing athletic talent in the country. Through structured training, sports facilities, coaching and institutional support, the Services help athletes develop their abilities and represent India at national and international competitions. Their emphasis on discipline, teamwork and perseverance continues to contribute to India’s sporting ecosystem.
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