India's goal for the 2026 Asian Games: 30 gold medals, selection process and early performance

New Delhi—In preparation for the 2026 Asian Games, the Indian Ministry of Sports released a detailed report on June 12, outlining India’s strategy and objectives for this year’s premier Asian sporting event. According to the report, the Indian team aims to win 30 gold medals, 45 silver medals and 55 bronze medals, achieving a total of 130 medals and marking India’s best performance in history. To reach this goal, the ministry conducted an in‑depth analysis of last year’s performance and proposed targeted investment in the top 15 sports, with athletics, archery, badminton and wrestling given priority.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) published the final list of 560 athletes on July 15, covering competitors in 28 sports. The selection process emphasized national qualifying competitions, international rankings and fitness tests. Specifically, 12 archers and shooters who are ranked within the world top 10 were selected directly. Additionally, young talents were offered the opportunity to attend a two‑month high‑performance camp to gain international experience.

In the first week of the Asian Games, India secured 12 gold, 18 silver and 22 bronze medals, totaling 52 medals. The gold medals came from Dhiraj Singh in the 400‑metre athletics race, Archana Singh in archery, and Saksi and Ravina in mixed doubles badminton. Silver medals were won by Ajay Verma in the 74 kg wrestling category and the shooters’ team, which each earned a silver. This performance placed the Indian team fifth in the intermediate rankings.

Experts believe that India’s prospects in short‑track speed skating and water sports are especially bright this time. Short‑track skater Rajesh Kaur, who won a bronze at the 2024 World Championships, has received special support from the coaching staff. In water sports, the women’s team that won two gold medals at the 2025 Asian Water Games now expects to win four medals at the Asian Games. These athletes are receiving additional nutrition and psychological assistance from the National Sports Academy.

In the next two weeks, finals for athletics, swimming and gymnastics will be held. The 100‑metre athletics final on July 30 is seen as decisive for India, with Dhiraj Singh competing as world rank 8. In swimming, on August 2, female athlete Neha Sharma recorded a personal best in the 200‑metre butterfly, boosting her gold‑medal chances. In gymnastics, young talent Anita Gupta delivered a steady performance in the team event, raising hopes for a possible team medal.

Considering all the data, the Indian Ministry of Sports announced the allocation of additional financial resources to achieve the 30‑gold‑medal target and pledged to provide athletes with facilities that meet international standards. This initiative is expected not only to enhance India’s chances of success at this edition of the Asian Games but also to have a positive long‑term impact on sports development.