New Delhi, 22 October (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, among other leaders, on Thursday congratulated India’s medal winners at the Asian Para Games 2026.

The leaders extended their greetings to Swati Chaudhary, who won silver in the women’s individual archery event; Ayush Verma, who clinched gold with a throw of 8.16 metres in the men’s shot put F53 final; and Suvarna Raj, who secured gold with an impressive throw of 15.66 metres in the women’s discus throw F54 final. They also congratulated Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar for winning gold in the mixed team compound archery event.

President Murmu, in a post on X, wrote, “Swati Chaudhary, by winning India’s first medal in this event, you have created history and paved a new path for the sport. Your achievement will inspire other archers to set ambitious goals and pursue their dreams with determination and commitment.”

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla celebrated Ayush Verma’s achievement, saying that his outstanding throw of 8.16 metres to win gold in the men’s shot put F53 final at the Asian Para Games was a moment of immense pride for the country.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said Suvarna Raj’s remarkable performance had brought her campaign to a memorable conclusion, enhanced the nation’s pride and inspired many aspiring athletes.

Meanwhile, Indian para-badminton players have continued to deliver impressive performances at the Asian Para Games. Sanjana Kumari, Suhas Yathiraj and Abhijeet Sukheja won bronze medals in their respective events, while Naveen Shivkumar advanced to the final of the men’s singles SL-4 category. The Games mark the Asian Para Games debut for both Sanjana and Naveen.

In archery, India’s Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar clinched gold in the mixed team compound event. In the final held on Thursday, the Indian pair defeated Indonesia’s Teodora Audi Audia Ferelly and Ken Swagumilang 151-148 to secure the top podium finish.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar