New Delhi, Oct 9:
The Union Sports Ministry will conduct a comprehensive review of India’s performance at the 2026 Asian Games on October 13, with the disappointing results of experienced athletes, injury management and the effectiveness of government funding expected to come under scrutiny.
India finished fourth in the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games with 85 medals, comprising 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze. Although the country retained its fourth position, its medal tally fell from the 106 medals won at the previous edition in Hangzhou. India also won seven fewer gold medals than it did in 2022, raising questions about its ability to convert strong performances into top finishes.
Officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the National Sports Federations will take part in the review, which is expected to examine performance across disciplines and identify shortcomings in preparations for future international competitions. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is expected to lead the discussions.
The performance of experienced athletes is likely to be a key concern. Several established competitors returned without medals, while results in traditionally strong disciplines such as shooting, athletics and badminton fell short of expectations. India won 15 medals in shooting but secured only one bronze in badminton, prompting questions about preparation, selection and the conversion of medal opportunities.
The review will also assess the government’s Target Olympics Podium Scheme (TOPS), which provides financial and other support to elite athletes. According to reports, ₹27.16 crore was invested in 34 athletes under the scheme for the Asian Games, with many failing to win medals. The broader expenditure on preparing athletes over the three-year cycle is also expected to be examined.
Injuries and fitness management are another area of concern. Officials have questioned why some athletes reported injuries only after reaching the Games, when substantial resources had already been spent on their preparation and participation. The review is expected to consider whether better medical monitoring and stricter fitness-clearance procedures are required.
Despite the shortcomings, India recorded notable achievements in several disciplines, including archery, cricket, kabaddi and hockey. The challenge for the ministry and national federations will be to build on these successes while addressing weaknesses in events where India had been expected to win more medals.
The review comes as Indian sport prepares for future international competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Officials are expected to examine whether funding, athlete selection, coaching, injury prevention and performance monitoring are delivering the intended results. The broader objective will be to ensure that investment in elite sport translates into consistent performances at major international events.