Asian Games 2023: India records best-ever medal haul

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• Oct 4, 2023 | Dhupali Das

India has etched its name in the annals of Asian Games history by achieving its best-ever medal haul of 71, surpassing the...

Digital Desk: India has etched its name in the annals of Asian Games history by achieving its best-ever medal haul of 71, surpassing the previous record of 70 medals set during the 2018 Asian Games. As of today, the Indian contingent boasts an impressive tally of 16 gold, 26 silver, and 29 bronze medals.

The remarkable feat was celebrated on October 4, with Indian athletes securing their 71st medal at the ongoing Asian Games. Manju Rani and Ram Baboo clinched bronze in a grueling 35km mixed race walk, which ensured that India matched their 2018 Jakarta Games performance.

Adding to India's glory, Ojas Deotale and Jyothi Surekha Vennam secured the mixed-team gold medal in compound archery. This victory marked the historic 71st medal for India, a significant milestone in the nation's sporting history.

Bhupender Singh Bajwa, India's chef de mission, expressed his delight at the team's incredible achievements. He stated, "We have exceeded our previous best medal haul in the Asian Games, and we are hopeful for more remarkable performances in the days ahead."

Taking a brief look back at India's Asian Games journey, the nation secured its second position with a total of 51 medals, including 15 gold, in the inaugural 1951 Asian Games held in New Delhi. The momentum continued with India ranking third in the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta, clinching 33 medals, including 10 gold and 13 silver.

However, in recent years, India's performance has seen an unprecedented surge. In the 2018 Asian Games, hosted in Jakarta, India bagged a staggering 16 gold medals, the highest in its history. The previous best was during the inaugural 1952 Asian Games in New Delhi, with 15 gold medals.

India is now on the cusp of achieving another historic milestone as it aims to break its own record for the highest number of gold medals in Asian Games history. The reigning world champion, Neeraj Chopra, is set to compete in the men's javelin throw final, adding to the nation's hopes.

With its largest-ever contingent participating in the Hangzhou Games, India's sights are set on crossing the 100-medal mark at this prestigious continental event. The catch line, "Ab ki Baar, Sau Paar" (will cross 100 medals this time), resonates with the nation as it strives for greatness on the Asian Games stage.