Indian para-shooter Mona Agarwal received a warm welcome at Delhi Airport on October 26, 2026, after a remarkable campaign at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games in Japan. The 38-year-old won two gold medals, including a world-record performance in the women’s 50m rifle three positions SH1 event, where she scored 357.5 points.
She also won gold in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, setting a Games record. Her achievements contributed to India’s record-breaking tally of 114 medals, including 30 golds. Upon her return, Agarwal dedicated her medals to her family and team, acknowledging the support that helped her succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier congratulated her on her historic achievements.
World Record Feat
Agarwal delivered her most remarkable performance on October 23, winning the women’s 50m rifle three positions SH1 final with a score of 357.5. She surpassed the previous world record of 356, set by Sweden’s Anna Benson at the World Shooting Para Sport World Cup in July 2026. China’s Cuiping Zhang won silver with 353.7 points, while South Korea’s Miyoung Kim claimed bronze.
India’s Avani Lekhara finished fourth in the event. Agarwal’s victory was particularly significant as she became the first Indian para-shooter to win a medal in this category at the Asian Para Games. Her second gold followed an equally impressive opening performance in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, where she scored 250.0 to set a Games record. She edged past compatriot Lekhara, who secured silver with 249.6 points.
#WATCH | Para-shooter Mona Agarwal, who won two gold medals at the 2026 Asian Games, expressed her gratitude to everyone who supported her journey to success. Meanwhile, Interim Chairman of Para Shooting Shivam Gupta expressed his delight at the impressive performance of Indian para-shooters at the Games. #AsianGames2026 #ParaShooting #MonaAgarwal #IndianShooters #ProudIndia
— DD News (@DDNewslive) October 25, 2026
Warm Welcome Home
India’s Asian Para Games contingent received a warm welcome at Delhi Airport after returning from Japan following a successful campaign that saw the country finish with 114 medals, comprising 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze. Speaking to reporters after her arrival, Agarwal reflected on the scale of her achievement. “Two gold medals, five records, this is a massive achievement for me,” she said.
She also described being chosen as a flag-bearer for the Indian contingent at the closing ceremony as a dream come true. Agarwal dedicated her medals to her family and the entire team, recognising their contribution to her success. She praised the facilities available to athletes in Japan and highlighted the support she received through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), implemented under the Sports Authority of India.
The scheme provides assistance to athletes preparing for major international competitions. Her remarks underlined the importance of sustained institutional support, alongside individual commitment, in helping athletes perform at the highest level.
PM Modi’s Recognition
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Agarwal after her world-record victory on October 23. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, he described her gold medal in the women’s 50m rifle three positions SH1 event as historic, highlighting both her world record and Asian Para Games record. He also noted that she was the first Indian para-shooter to win a medal in the event and expressed hope that she would continue to make India proud.
Modi had earlier congratulated her for winning the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 gold on October 19, praising her precision, determination and composure. Agarwal’s achievements also build on her experience at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she won bronze. Having qualified for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games through the World Championships in September 2026, she now has another major international milestone ahead. Her Asian Para Games campaign demonstrated the value of preparation, consistency and confidence under pressure.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Mona Agarwal’s achievements deserve recognition not only for the medals and records but also for the determination and teamwork behind them. Her journey highlights how athletes can thrive when their abilities are supported by appropriate facilities, expert coaching and opportunities to compete at the highest level. Para-sport also challenges society to move beyond stereotypes about disability and recognise talent, ambition and achievement on equal terms.
While celebrating India’s record medal haul, it is equally important to ensure that support for para-athletes continues beyond major competitions. Accessible training centres, reliable funding, inclusive sporting infrastructure and public recognition can help more aspiring athletes pursue their goals with dignity. Agarwal’s success offers an opportunity to strengthen that commitment across the country.
What more can India do to make sports accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.
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