India gives warm send-off to Para Asian Games contingent as new kit is launched

India's contingent for the upcoming continental showpiece received a formal send-off in New Delhi on Thursday, with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya unveiling the new Team India jersey ahead of the multi-sport event in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

The send-off ceremony, organised by the Paralympic Committee of India, marks the final phase of preparation for national athletes heading to the regional games scheduled to take place from October 18 to 24.

During the proceedings, para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat was named as the flag bearer for the Indian delegation. Bhagat, a prominent figure in the sport with a history of strong continental performances, will share flag-bearing duties at the opening ceremony alongside table tennis player Bhavina Patel.

The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp at the venue. Several high-profile competitors attended the gathering, including Paralympic medallists Simran Sharma, Preeti Pal, and Kapil Parmar, alongside para-archer Rakesh Kumar and para-powerlifter Ashok Kumar.

Addressing the assembled athletes, Mandaviya encouraged the contingent to focus entirely on their upcoming performances and securing podium finishes for the country. The function brought together sports administrators and competitors from multiple disciplines as the final logistics for the Japanese trip were locked down.

The Aichi-Nagoya games follow closely on the heels of the recent Asian Games cycle. The Paralympic Committee of India leadership, including President Devendra Jhajharia, was present alongside corporate foundation representatives to support the team before departure.

Athletes across various disciplines are scheduled to depart for Japan in batches over the coming days to acclimatise to local conditions ahead of the opening events. The contingent aims to build upon previous international performances during the week-long competition.