Patna: Bihar para swimmer Shams Alam has earned another major milestone after being selected to represent India at the Asian Para Games 2026, scheduled in Japan from October 18 to 24. His selection marks his third consecutive appearance at the continental para-sports event.
Shams Alam is also the first para swimmer from Bihar to secure selection for the Asian Para Games three times in a row, bringing recognition to the state’s para-sports community.
Third Straight Asian Para Games Selection
Shams Alam’s selection for the 2026 Asian Para Games adds another chapter to his international sporting career. His consistent performances at national and international competitions have helped him remain part of India’s para-swimming contingent.
The upcoming event in Japan will give him another opportunity to compete at the continental level and represent Bihar and India on an international platform.
His achievement has also brought a sense of pride and celebration to Bihar’s sporting community, particularly among athletes and supporters of para-sports.
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A Career Built on International Experience
Shams Alam has competed at several major para-swimming events during his career.
At the 2018 Indian Open Para Swimming Championship, he won four gold medals, underlining his strength at the national level.
He also competed internationally at the 2016 Can-Am Para Swimming Championships held in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada, where he won a bronze medal.
These performances helped establish him as a prominent para swimmer from Bihar and contributed to his continued presence in international competitions.
Represented India at Asian and World Championships
Shams Alam has previously represented India at major international competitions.
He competed at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, gaining experience at one of Asia’s biggest para-sporting events.
He later represented India at the 2022 World Para Swimming Championships in Madeira, Portugal. His participation at both continental and world-level competitions has added to his international experience ahead of the 2026 Asian Para Games.
His latest selection means he will return to the Asian Para Games stage for a third consecutive edition.
President’s Award Recognised His Sporting Achievement
Shams Alam’s contribution to para-sports has also received national recognition.
On December 3, 2021, he was honoured by the President of India with the Best Sportsperson with Disability Award.
The recognition highlighted his achievements in sports and added to the growing profile of para-athletes from Bihar at the national level.
For athletes with disabilities, such recognition can also play an important role in bringing greater visibility to para-sports and encouraging young players to pursue competitive sport.
Shams Alam Credits Bihar’s Support
Following his selection for the Asian Para Games 2026, Shams Alam expressed his gratitude to the Bihar government.
He said the support and encouragement provided by the state government to sportspersons have played an important role in helping him progress in his sporting career.
The support for athletes is particularly significant for para-sportspersons, who often require specialised training, equipment and opportunities to compete at higher levels.
Shams Alam’s continued international participation also highlights the importance of sustained support for athletes beyond individual competitions.
A Milestone for Bihar Para-Sports
Shams Alam’s third consecutive Asian Para Games selection is significant not only for the swimmer but also for Bihar’s para-sports landscape.
His journey from national championships to international competitions demonstrates how sustained competitive experience can help athletes build long-term careers. His achievements also provide greater visibility to para-swimming in a state where sports infrastructure and opportunities continue to expand.
With his selection confirmed for the 2026 Asian Para Games, Shams Alam will now look to turn his experience into another strong performance on the international stage.
For Bihar, his participation represents another opportunity to showcase the state’s sporting talent. For young para-athletes, his career offers an example of how consistency, competitive experience and institutional support can help take talent to the national and international level.
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