Nishad Kumar, Mona Agarwal Named India’s Flag Bearers for Asian Para Games Closing Ceremony

Nishad Kumar, Mona Agarwal to Lead India as Flag Bearers at Asian Para Games Closing Ceremony

Nishad Kumar and Mona Agarwal have been named India’s flag bearers for the closing ceremony of the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, scheduled for Saturday. The honour comes after both athletes delivered outstanding performances, winning two gold medals each and setting new records in their respective disciplines.

Nishad showcased his versatility in para-athletics by winning gold in two events. He opened his campaign with a victory in the men’s long jump T47, registering a best effort of 7.11 metres despite making his international debut in the discipline. The two-time Paralympic silver medallist then returned to his speciality, the men’s high jump T47, where he cleared 2.04 metres to establish a new Games record.

With these victories, Nishad became only the third Indian athlete to win two gold medals in a single edition of the Asian Para Games. He joined para-runner Ankur Dhama and armless archer Sheetal Devi on the exclusive list. For the world champion, the long jump triumph was particularly noteworthy as it demonstrated his ability to succeed in a new event before securing another title in his primary discipline.

Mona Agarwal also enjoyed a remarkable campaign in shooting, opening India’s medal tally with gold in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event. She recorded 250.0 points, setting a new Games record and edging compatriot Avani Lekhara by just 0.4 points. Mona staged an impressive comeback in the final, rising from sixth place to claim the title, while Avani, a two-time Paralympic champion, took silver to complete an Indian one-two finish.

The 2024 Paris Paralympics bronze medallist added another gold medal on Friday, October 23, in the women’s 50m rifle 3 Positions SH1 event. Mona scored 357.5 points to establish a world record, surpassing the previous mark of 356 points set by Sweden’s Anna Benson in July 2026.

Her two gold medals further strengthened her position among India’s leading para-shooters and highlighted her consistency on the continental stage.

With two gold medals apiece, Nishad Kumar and Mona Agarwal will lead the Indian contingent at the closing ceremony. Their selection as flag bearers recognises their record-breaking achievements and significant contributions to India’s campaign at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games.