New Delhi: India bagged its first two medals at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 on Sunday, a day after the Games kicked off.
In the 10m air rifle event, the Indian women’s team grabbed a silver medal.
The team comprising Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Uttam Maskar and Vidarsa K. Vinod finished second with a score of 1898.0, according to reports.
The gold went to China.
Elavenil then finished second in the individual final to secure the country’s second medal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed delight at the Indian team’s outstanding achievement.
In a post on X, he said: “Hardwork and teamwork lead to an outstanding result! Proud of Sonam Uttam Maskar, Elavenil Valarivan and Vidarsa K Vinod for winning the Silver Medal at the Asian Games 2026 in 10m Air Rifle Women’s event. Their success will inspire several athletes in the coming times.”
President Droupadi Murmu too congratulated the Indian women’s team.
In a post on X, she wrote: “Heartiest congratulations to Elavenil Valarivan, Vidarsa K Vinod and Sonam Uttam Maskar on winning a silver medal in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle Team event at the Asian Games 2026. Your commendable achievement has opened India’s medal account at the Games and brings immense pride to the nation. My best wishes for your continued success.”
China is leading the medal table with 11 gold medals, followed by hosts Japan, which have bagged six golds.
Other results: Hockey: Indian women’s team thrash Uzbekistan 19-0 in group stage match.
Hockey: Indian men’s team drubbed Indonesia 13-1 in a group-stage match.
