Sports Ministry to review senior athletes' performance

A review meeting by India's Sports Ministry concerning the nation's performance at the Asian Games 2026 has been postponed from October 13 to October 15. This session, chaired by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, will focus on the underwhelming results of several experienced athletes across badminton, shooting, and athletics. India secured 85 medals, including 21 gold, falling short of the previous edition's record tally.

Disappointing individual performances were noted in key sports. Badminton saw only one bronze medal, with top players exiting early. Shooting, particularly pistol events, also underperformed, and athletics saw a significant drop in gold medals. Injuries to prominent athletes further raised concerns about fitness protocols. In contrast, the Indian Army's athletes achieved a remarkable 20 medals, comprising six gold, eight silver, and six bronze. Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth expressed confidence in their potential for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, highlighting the success of the Army's Mission Olympic Wing established in 2001.

Separately, the DP World India Championship 2026 is set to commence at the Delhi Golf Club. Indian golfers Gaganjeet Bhullar, Karandeep Kochhar, and Shiv Kapur will compete against a formidable international field, including six-time Major champion Rory McIlroy. Bhullar enters the championship on the back of a recent victory, with Kochhar and Kapur also showing strong recent performances and bringing significant experience to the event.