Aichi-Nagoya, Oct 2026 : The fifth edition of the Para Asian Games 2026 was officially inaugurated in Japan’s Aichi-Nagoya region on Sunday, marking the formal beginning of the continental competition. The Games, scheduled to run from October 18 to 24, have brought together athletes from all 45 Asian countries for the first time in the history of the event.
India’s contingent made an impressive entry at the opening ceremony, led by para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat and sprinter Simran Sharma, who carried the national flag as the country’s joint flagbearers. Their appearance was among the highlights of the ceremony, with the Paralympic Committee of India sharing a video of the Indian team’s march on social media and describing the appointment of the flagbearers as a moment of national pride.
Bhagat is one of India’s leading para-badminton players, while Sharma has established herself in sprinting events. Their leadership at the ceremony reflected India’s commitment to supporting athletes with disabilities and celebrating their achievements on the international stage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent as the Games began. In a message posted on social media platform X on Sunday, Modi praised the athletes for their spirit, dedication and determination.
“With the start of the Para Asian Games 2026, I extend my best wishes to the Indian contingent,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the country was extremely proud of its outstanding para-athletes.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also welcomed the athletes and officials who had arrived to participate in the continental event. She praised the competitors for their courage, determination and willingness to overcome challenges.
Takaichi said that athletes pushing their limits, respecting one another and striving to demonstrate their full potential would help society better understand the strength and possibilities of para-sports. Her message highlighted the wider significance of the Games in promoting inclusion, mutual respect and recognition of sporting excellence.
India has sent a 281-member contingent to the event, including 168 athletes—112 men and 56 women. The Indian competitors will represent the country across 11 sports, with the team aiming to deliver strong performances and add to India’s growing record in para-sports.
The Indian flagbearers were changed shortly before the opening ceremony. Bhagat had initially been paired with para-table tennis player Bhavina Patel for the responsibility. However, Patel was scheduled to compete in her quarter-final on October 19, and attending the ceremony was expected to involve approximately six hours of travel to and from the venue.
Considering the demands of her upcoming match, officials reportedly decided to prioritise her rest and preparation. Sprinter Simran Sharma was consequently named as the replacement flagbearer alongside Bhagat.
The Indian contingent’s ceremonial attire also attracted attention. The athletes wore dark-blue blazers decorated with golden motifs inspired by the Indus Valley Civilisation, combining India’s ancient cultural heritage with the contemporary sporting occasion.
The designs featured representations inspired by the famous Priest-King sculpture, the Dancing Girl figurine and symbols found on ancient seals. The Indian tricolour was displayed on the blazer pockets, while the collars incorporated references to Saptasindhu, or the land of seven rivers, reflecting the country’s historical and cultural legacy.
With athletes from across Asia competing in the week-long event, the Para Asian Games provide a major platform for para-athletes to showcase their abilities, challenge limitations and represent their nations. For India, the opening ceremony marked the beginning of a campaign in which its 168 competitors will seek to translate their preparation and determination into medal-winning performances.
