New Delhi, 07 October (H.S.): Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel will lead the Indian contingent as flag bearers at the opening ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, on October 18. Both athletes are among India’s most accomplished para-sport stars, and their achievements have played a significant role in giving para sport greater recognition in the country.

According to the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), para-badminton player Pramod Bhagat has won six medals at the Asian Para Games between 2014 and 2023, including two gold and four bronze medals.

Para-table tennis player Bhavina Patel, meanwhile, has won two Asian Para Games medals between 2018 and 2023 — one silver and one bronze.

Together, Bhagat and Patel have won eight Asian Para Games medals and will now lead the Indian contingent, carrying the Tricolour at the head of the team at the fifth Asian Para Games, which will be held from October 18 to 24.

The PCI will formally send off the Indian contingent at a special Send-Off Ceremony in New Delhi on October 8. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya will be the Chief Guest, while Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse will attend as the Guest of Honour. The Games’ official schedule confirms that the fifth Asian Para Games will be held in Aichi-Nagoya from October 18 to 24, 2026.

The selection of Bhagat and Patel as flag bearers carries special significance. Both athletes have been at the forefront of the development of para sport in India and have consistently brought pride to the country on major international stages. Their presence at the helm of the Indian contingent is being seen as a symbol of India’s journey from participation to performance, and from representation to recognition on the global para-sport stage.

PCI President Devendra Jhajharia said, “It is a matter of immense pride for us to have Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel lead the Indian contingent at the Opening Ceremony. Both are exceptional champions who have contributed immensely to the growth of Indian para sport. Their journey, achievements and resilience make them fitting representatives of the Indian contingent, and I am confident they will inspire our athletes as they embark on this important campaign.”

Bhavina Patel said, “It is a very proud moment for me to be chosen as India’s flag bearer. When you carry the Tricolour, you realise that you are representing something much bigger than yourself. I am excited to walk into the Opening Ceremony with Pramod and lead our contingent. I hope all our athletes compete with confidence, enjoy the moment and give their very best for India.”

The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games will bring together para athletes from across the continent. The event is scheduled to feature 18 sports and athletes from 45 National Paralympic Committees, with India seeking to build on its growing success at major international competitions.

When the Indian contingent marches into the Opening Ceremony on October 18, it will be led by two champions who know what it means to carry the Tricolour, compete for India and inspire millions.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar