Asian Games 2026: Rajnath Singh Felicitates Services Athletes After Record 27-Medal Haul
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitated athletes from India’s three Armed Services on October 12 after they delivered a record performance at the Asian Games 2026, winning 27 medals in Japan. Their haul of six gold, 11 silver and 10 bronze medals made a significant contribution to India’s overall tally of 85 medals and its fourth-place finish.
The achievement marked the Services’ best-ever performance at the continental sporting event. A total of 92 athletes from the Army, Navy and Air Force competed across 19 disciplines, highlighting the contribution of defence personnel to Indian sport.
Asian Games 2026: Services Athletes Win 27 Medals
The Services contingent accounted for approximately 32 per cent of India’s total medals and 28.57 per cent of its gold medals. The overall Indian team finished with 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze medals.
During the felicitation ceremony in New Delhi, Rajnath Singh praised the athletes for their discipline, hard work, team spirit and commitment. He also recognised the demanding preparation behind international success, which requires athletes to balance sporting commitments with their responsibilities in the Services.
The Defence Minister acknowledged the efforts of the Mission Olympic Wing, coaches and support staff in identifying talent, providing scientific training and helping athletes prepare for major competitions.
Neeru Dhanda, Gulveer Singh Shine at Asian Games 2026
Neeru Dhanda Wins Three Medals
Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda emerged as one of the standout performers, winning two gold medals and one silver. She also became the first Indian woman to win gold in the individual women’s trap event at the Asian Games, marking a significant milestone for Indian shooting.
Gulveer Singh Makes Track-and-Field History
Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh secured two silver medals and one bronze. His achievement made him the first Indian male track-and-field athlete to win three individual medals at a single edition of the Asian Games.
Sawan Barwal Ends India’s Marathon Medal Wait
Havildar Sawan Barwal won silver in the men’s marathon with a national-record time of 2:11:37. The result ended India’s 44-year wait for an Asian Games marathon medal.
Naib Subedar Sarvesh Kushare also earned a historic medal in the men’s high jump, ending a 56-year gap since India last won a medal in the event at the Games.
Mission Olympic Wing and Sports Support Staff Recognised
Rajnath Singh highlighted the role of the Mission Olympic Wing in developing Services athletes through talent identification, scientific preparation and access to modern sports facilities. He also recognised coaches, physiotherapists, nutritionists, support staff and athletes’ families, noting the collective effort behind every sporting achievement.
The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure, training facilities and opportunities for athletes. He also encouraged participants who did not win medals to continue striving, emphasising that competing for the country and the Defence Forces itself brings honour.
Services Athletes Target Los Angeles Olympics 2028
With the Los Angeles Olympics 2028 approaching, Rajnath Singh called for a focused and systematic preparation plan. He urged athletes, coaches and trainers to set higher goals and build on the success achieved at the Asian Games.
The 27-medal performance underlines the important role played by the Armed Services in Indian sport. With continued investment in training, athlete development and support systems, the Services will aim to translate their continental success into stronger performances on the Olympic stage.
