On October 15, 2026, the Indian sporting landscape felt a little brighter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the athletes who had just returned from the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, a delegation brimming with success. The meeting took place at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi, a fitting location given the prominence of the hockey teams among the medalists. For many, the Games were a moment of national pride, a surge of optimism reflected in the Prime Minister’s words.
The Indian delegation secured a total of 85 medals, including 21 gold medals, at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. This achievement marked a new high for the nation and underscored the years of training and dedication behind the athletes’ performances.
#WATCH | Delhi: On Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacting with the Indian contingent that participated in the Asian Games 2026, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey says, "Today, the Prime Minister met with the athletes. He specifically spoke about hockey—notably the achievement of our women’s team, who won gold at the Asian Games. This is their first such victory since 1982, when the Asian Games were held here in Delhi. The Prime Minister considers this a truly significant win. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the vision he has for promoting sports, especially hockey. Our women’s team delivered an exceptional performance; in just the last six to seven months, a formidable new squad has been built. While their performance in the World Cup may have been underwhelming, they truly excelled at the Asian Games. Most importantly, they secured a brilliant victory against China—a top-tier Asian team that has consistently competed at the World Cup and the recent Olympics. The team played with a clear, well-executed strategy... I would like to extend my congratulations to both the men’s and women’s teams for their outstanding efforts."
Modi praised the coaches, support staff, and families for their vital role in the athletes’ journeys, recognizing the broader ecosystem that fuels sporting success.
Modi praised the coaches, support staff, and families for their vital role in the athletes’ journeys, recognizing the broader ecosystem that fuels sporting success.
Both the men’s and women’s hockey teams won gold medals, a rare and significant achievement that highlighted India’s strength in the sport.
Modi emphasized the success as an example of India’s youth and potential, underscoring the growing prominence of female athletes in the country.