India’s medal tally at the Commonwealth Games 2026 received another boost as high jumper Sarvesh Kushare and weightlifter Valluri Ajaya Babu clinched silver medals, drawing praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries.
Sarvesh created history by becoming the first Indian man to win a Commonwealth Games medal in the high jump. The 24-year-old cleared 2.29m to finish second behind Australia’s Yual Reath, who claimed gold with a Games record leap of 2.33m. New Zealand’s Hamish Kerr took bronze with 2.26m.
In weightlifting, Valluri Ajaya Babu produced an impressive performance in the men’s 98kg category to win silver with a combined lift of 370kg (170kg snatch + 200kg clean and jerk). The Andhra Pradesh lifter set a new Commonwealth Games record in the snatch with his 170kg effort but narrowly missed out on gold by just one kilogram after failing to clear 206kg in his final clean and jerk attempt.
Ajaya later dedicated his silver medal to his family and coaches, saying the achievement was the result of years of hard work and support.
The two silver medals added to India’s growing tally in Glasgow, with athletics and weightlifting continuing to contribute significantly to the country’s medal haul.
PM Modi, President Murmu and Mandaviya congratulate medallists
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated both athletes on their performances.
“Hats off to Sarvesh Kushare for creating history by becoming the first Indian male athlete to win a Commonwealth Games medal in High Jump. Congratulations to him on winning the Silver. His hard work and determination are truly inspiring. Best wishes for his future endeavours,” the Prime Minister posted on X.
A spectacular Silver for Sarvesh Kushare in Men’s High Jump at #CWG2026! His determination and consistency have been noteworthy. Congratulations to him on this outstanding achievement. India is proud of him. Wishing him many more successes ahead. pic.twitter.com/9JwypnM0Rb
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 28, 2026
Congratulating Ajaya Babu, the Prime Minister wrote: “Kudos to Valluri Ajaya Babu on winning the Silver medal in Weightlifting at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. His outstanding performance and dedication have brought immense pride to the nation. Wishing him continued success in the future.”
More glory for India in Weightlifting!
Delighted that Valluri Ajaya Babu brings home the Silver Medal in the Men’s 79 kg category at the Glasgow games. He has also etched his name in the record books by setting a CWG Record in the Snatch event. Congratulations to him and all the… pic.twitter.com/APBtXfj1nN
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 28, 2026
President Droupadi Murmu also praised the duo, while Union Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya hailed their achievements, describing Sarvesh’s historic high jump silver and Ajaya’s record-breaking weightlifting performance as proud moments for Indian sport.