‘Convert Pressure into Performance’: Mandaviya to Asian Games Athletes
503-member Indian contingent receives grand send-off ahead of 2026 Asian Games in Japan
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 8th Sept: The Indian contingent for the Asian Games 2026 received a grand send-off in New Delhi on Tuesday in the presence of Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.
Dr. Mandaviya, along with Indian Olympic Association President Dr. P.T. Usha, Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao and Chef de Mission Sahdev Yadav, unveiled the official contingent jersey in the presence of athletes and support staff.
Urging the athletes to remain focused, Dr. Mandaviya said they should convert pressure into performance, see opponents as opportunities and turn opportunities into achievements. He expressed confidence that the contingent would deliver a strong performance and enhance the country’s pride.
The 503-member contingent includes more than 300 athletes who will be making their first appearance at the Asian Games, reflecting the growing depth and emergence of new talent in Indian sport.
Highlighting India’s recent performance at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, the Sports Minister said the country has ensured transparent and merit-based selection through open trials, independent observers and camera monitoring.
Dr. Mandaviya said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision has opened new pathways for Indian athletes to compete and excel globally. He said the government’s target is to establish India firmly on the world sporting stage by 2036, with more than ₹36,000 crore allocated for sports infrastructure over the 10-year period.
IOA President Dr. P.T. Usha said the athletes were travelling to represent India and described it as both a responsibility and a privilege. She expressed gratitude for the continued support extended to Indian sport.
The Asian Games 2026 will be held in Japan, where the Indian contingent will compete across multiple sporting disciplines.
