Asian Para Games 2026 / Pramod Bhagat, Bhavina Patel Named India’s Flag Bearers for Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games

New Delhi, Oct 7: India's Paralympic stars, Odisha’s Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel, have been named the country's flag bearers for the opening ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games in Japan on October 18. The decision recognises two of India's most accomplished para-athletes whose performances on the international stage have played a key role in elevating Indian para sports.

Pramod, one of India’s most decorated para badminton players, has won six medals at the Asian Para Games between 2014 and 2023, including two gold and four bronze medals. Bhavina, a leading para table tennis player, has secured two Asian Para Games medals, including a silver and a bronze between 2018 and 2023.

Pride and responsibility

Expressing her gratitude, Bhavina said it was a proud moment to be chosen as one of India's flag bearers.

“When you carry the Tricolour, you realise that you are representing something much bigger than yourself. I am excited to walk into the Opening Ceremony with Pramod and lead our contingent. I hope all our athletes compete with confidence, enjoy the moment and give their very best for India,” she said.

Together, Bhagat and Patel have won eight Asian Para Games medals and will lead the Indian contingent into the opening ceremony of the fifth edition of the Games, scheduled from October 18 to 24.

Symbols of India’s para sports rise

The selection of Bhagat and Patel is being viewed as a recognition of their contribution to India's emergence as a major force in para sports. Both athletes have inspired aspiring sportspersons through their resilience and success at global competitions.

Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) President Devendra Jhajharia said the duo were fitting representatives of the Indian contingent.

“It is a matter of immense pride for us to have Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel lead the Indian contingent at the Opening Ceremony. Their journey, achievements and resilience make them ideal flag bearers and a source of inspiration for our athletes,” he said.
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The PCI will formally send off the Indian contingent at a ceremony on Thursday. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will attend as the chief guest, while Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse will be the guest of honour.

India will look to continue its impressive rise in para sports when athletes from across Asia gather for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.
(With inputs from IANS)