India’s athletics contingent continued its medal surge at the Asian Games 2026, with Parul Chaudhary, Gulveer Singh, and Vithya Ramraj delivering podium finishes in their respective events.
Long‑distance runner Parul Chaudhary, 31, from Uttar Pradesh, claimed bronze in the women’s 5000m, clocking 15:14.61. Though she could not defend her gold from Hangzhou 2023, Parul showcased grit, finishing behind Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi (15:10.18) and Japan’s Nozomi Tanaka (15:11.65).
In the men’s 1500m final, Gulveer Singh powered through to secure silver, adding another highlight to India’s track campaign. His performance underlined India’s growing strength in middle‑distance running.
Meanwhile, Vithya Ramraj etched her name in history by clinching bronze in the women’s 400m hurdles, clocking a time better than the legendary P.T. Usha’s 55.42 seconds set at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. With Usha herself present at the Games as head of the Indian Olympic Association, Ramraj’s achievement carried symbolic weight, bridging generations of Indian athletics excellence.
These medals reflect India’s rising stature in athletics, combining experience and fresh talent. With more events ahead, the contingent remains determined to push higher in the medal standings.
