NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the Indian contingent success ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, expressing confidence that the athletes would compete with determination and inspire the nation. India began its campaign on Thursday with a 124-member contingent looking to make a strong impact despite a reduced competition programme.“At the start of the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games, my best wishes to the Indian contingent,” PM Modi wrote on X.“I am confident that our athletes will participate in the Games with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence. The skills and dedication of our athletes have always inspired countless Indians.”
India started the campaign in the bowls events
India’s campaign begins with two bowl matches before the opening ceremony later in the day. The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games competitions will be held in four venues.Indian athletes will compete in eight sports. athletics, boxing, weightlifting, judo, artistic gymnastics, track cycling, bowls and swimming. The country’s para-athletes will also participate in five disciplines, which include para-athletics, para-swimming, para-powerlifting, para-track cycling and 3×3 wheelchair basketball.
Neeraj, Mirabai led the medal haul
Athletics will be held from July 27 to August 1, with Olympic and world champions Neeraj Chopra leading the Indian challenge. He will compete in the men’s javelin throw final on August 1 and will be aiming to regain the Commonwealth Games gold medal after missing out on the 2022 edition due to injury. Chopra won the title at the 2018 Gold Coast Games.India’s other major medalist is the weightlifting star Mirabai Chanua two-time Commonwealth Games champion and Olympic medalist. The weightlifting events are scheduled from July 26 to 30, with Chanu expected to lead India’s campaign in the sport.