The opening ceremony opened with Simran Sharma, the Paralympic medallist sprinter, hoisting the tricolour from a 281‑member contingent that marched through the venue in ceremonial blazers.
The blazers were more than fabric; they bore seals from the Indus Valley, the world’s oldest civilization, and the SaptSindhu motif on the collar, symbolising the land of seven rivers.
Over 100 athletes, including top shuttler Pramod Bhagat, carried the flag, their faces a mix of pride and anticipation.
The Paralympic Committee of India announced the tribute, noting that “Team India walked out wearing more than just ceremonial dress— they wore 5,000 years of civilisation.”
With 168 athletes—112 men and 56 women—India is set to compete across 11 disciplines, while the Games host 3,000 athletes from 45 nations under the motto “Imagine One Heart.”
India’s most successful Asian Para Games came in Hangzhou 2023, finishing fifth with 111 medals, including 29 golds.
The vibrant parade signals a strong start as the team aims to break that record, setting sights on a haul that could eclipse the previous tally.
Next up: the first athletics heats on October 25, where India will battle for early medals.