Pramod Bhagat To Lead India As Flag Bearer At Asian Para Games 202
Bhubaneswar: Ace Odisha para badminton player Pramod Bhagat has been selected as one of India’s flag bearers for the opening ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games in Japan.
He will share the honour with para table tennis star Bhavina Patel, marking a proud moment for Indian para sports.
The prestigious event is scheduled to begin on October 18, 2026, with athletes from across Asia competing in various disciplines.
India’s decision to entrust Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel with carrying the national flag reflects their remarkable contributions and achievements in para sports.
A decorated para badminton champion, Pramod Bhagat has won six medals at the Asian Para Games between 2014 and 2023, including two gold medals and four bronze medals.
His consistent performances on the international stage have established him as one of India’s most successful para athletes.
Meanwhile, Bhavina Patel has secured two Asian Para Games medals, including a silver and a bronze, further strengthening her credentials as one of India’s leading para table tennis players.
Expressing her gratitude for being selected as a flag bearer, Bhavina Patel said the opportunity was a matter of immense pride and responsibility, emphasising that carrying the Indian flag represents much more than an individual achievement.
Congratulating both athletes, Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India, described them as champions whose talent, determination and achievements make them ideal representatives of the country on the continental stage.
The Paralympic Committee of India is also set to host a ceremonial send-off for the Indian contingent ahead of the Games.
The event is expected to be attended by Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.
With experienced athletes such as Pramod Bhagat leading from the front, India will aim to build on its growing reputation in para sports and deliver another strong performance at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.
