New Delhi, 26 September (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and several other leaders on Saturday congratulated Indian athletes who won medals at the Asian Games. They extended their greetings and best wishes to Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar, who won the bronze medal in mixed doubles squash; Tilottama Sen, Vidarsha K. Vinod and Esha Chouksey, who won the silver medal in the women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions team event; and Sawan Barwal, who won the silver medal in the men’s marathon.

In a post on X, President Droupadi Murmu congratulated the Indian women’s kabaddi team and all the Indian medal winners for successfully defending their titles at the Asian Games 2026. She wrote, “I congratulate the women’s kabaddi team and all the Indian medal winners for successfully defending their title at the Asian Games 2026! In a closely contested final, you faced every challenge and stood firm under pressure to retain the gold medal for India. This hard-fought victory reflects the courage, composure and unwavering determination that define a champion. Your partnership and dedication have demonstrated the strength and spirit of Indian squash. May this success inspire you to pursue even greater goals.”

The Vice President said that these outstanding performances, marked by the endurance, teamwork and determination of Indian athletes at the Asian Games, had brought pride to the nation and would inspire countless young sportspersons across India.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said the achievements marked another golden chapter for Indian sport and a moment of immense pride for the country. He said the athletes had maintained their composure and displayed their skill, strength and teamwork, enabling them to reach the top of the podium once again.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar had added another medal to India’s tally at the Asian Games 2026 by winning bronze in the mixed doubles squash event. He wished them continued success and said they should keep bringing glory to the country and making the Tricolour proud.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah said the outstanding performances of Indian athletes had enthralled the nation and demonstrated India’s formidable presence in sport. He wished the athletes continued success and said, “May victory always be with you.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar