New Delhi, 03 August (H.S.): The remarkable performance of Indian women athletes emerged as the biggest strength behind India’s successful campaign at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. Out of the 13 gold medals won by the Indian contingent, eight were secured by women athletes, proving that ‘Nari Shakti’ in Indian sports is no longer just about participation but has become a symbol of success and excellence.

Indian women athletes led the campaign by winning gold medals across various disciplines, including weightlifting, boxing, judo and para athletics. Their achievements reflect the growing confidence, strength and consistent success of women in Indian sports.

In weightlifting, Olympic champion Mirabai Chanu once again showcased her greatness by winning a gold medal. In para athletics, Sharmila Dhankar clinched the gold medal in the women’s shot put event, while Asmita Dey created history by becoming the first Indian judoka to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.

Indian women boxers delivered the most impressive performances at the Games. Sakshi Chaudhary, Preeti Pawar, Jasmine Lamboria, Priya Ghanghas and Arundhati Chaudhary won gold medals in their respective categories, highlighting the rising dominance of Indian women’s boxing. The progress made by Indian women boxers over the past decade was clearly reflected in Glasgow.

These eight gold medals not only lifted India’s overall campaign to new heights but also proved that Indian women athletes are no longer emerging talents alone; they have established themselves as consistent gold-winning champions on the international stage.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha expressed pride in the achievements of women athletes and said in an official statement, “It is a matter of immense pride that eight of India’s 13 gold medals have been won by women. Behind these achievements are years of hard work and dedication by the athletes, their families, coaches and support staff. Every medal tells a story of struggle and sacrifice. Most importantly, these champions are inspiring millions of daughters across the country by showing them that they too can wear the Indian jersey and achieve success on the global stage. This is the true spirit of ‘Nari Shakti’.”

According to a statement issued by the Indian Olympic Association, India’s success in Glasgow also reflects the broader picture of women’s empowerment in the country. The increasing participation of women in education, entrepreneurship, governance and sports, along with initiatives to promote women’s involvement in athletics, is now producing visible results on sporting platforms.

The statement highlighted that schemes encouraging girls to take up sports, improved training facilities, stronger support systems for athletes and growing respect for women sportspersons have created a strong foundation for this transformation.

The IOA also stated that the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ represents the country’s commitment towards women’s empowerment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also consistently encouraged women athletes and motivated them to deliver outstanding performances at the global level. The success of Indian women athletes in Glasgow is a reflection of this broader vision and expansion of opportunities.

According to the IOA, Indian women athletes at the Commonwealth Games not only won medals but also displayed exceptional team spirit. Experienced players guided younger athletes, celebrated each other’s achievements and showcased the unity of Team India throughout the competition.

The statement further noted that there was a time when success of Indian women at international competitions was considered an exception, but today excellence has become their identity. India now has a generation of women athletes capable of challenging the world’s best and consistently securing places on the podium.

The inspiration created by Mirabai Chanu, Sharmila Dhankar, Asmita Dey, Sakshi Chaudhary, Preeti Pawar, Jasmine Lamboria, Priya Ghanghas and Arundhati Chaudhary in Glasgow will go far beyond their medals. Their achievements will continue to encourage millions of girls across the country to dream bigger and pursue those dreams with determination.

The Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 made it clear that ‘Nari Shakti’ did not just strengthen India’s campaign this time; it became the defining identity of the nation’s remarkable performance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar