Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, led a meeting at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) headquarters to assess the arrangements for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. The Games are set to take place from September 19 to October 4, with over 700 Indian athletes participating in more than 40 sports disciplines. Mandaviya reiterated the government’s dedication to athlete welfare and performance during the meeting.
The minister emphasized the priority given to athletes, ensuring comprehensive support encompassing training, sports science, logistics, kit assistance, food provisions, and medical care. The focus is on enabling athletes to concentrate on their preparations without any hindrances and deliver optimal performances at the Asian Games. Senior officials from various sports bodies briefed Mandaviya on the country’s readiness for the upcoming event, assuring full support for athletes to excel at the continental showcase.
A committee comprising 15 members, including officials and sports personalities, has been overseeing the preparations for the 2026 Asian Games through regular meetings. The committee is streamlining planning across various aspects such as training, logistics, athlete welfare, and competition readiness. The next meeting is scheduled for March 20 to finalize contingent size, logistics, travel arrangements, and operational readiness as India progresses into the crucial phase of its preparations for the continental sporting event.
Efforts are being made to ensure coordinated actions among all stakeholders, emphasizing structured preparation, robust support systems, and timely planning to help India achieve new milestones at the 2026 Asian Games. Special measures, such as appointing nodal officers for the Asian Games Technical Handbook and early finalization of teams, are being implemented to enhance performance. The nation aims to surpass its previous medal tally at the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2022 through strategic planning and unified coordination.
