Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent as the Commonwealth Games 2026 got underway in Glasgow, expressing confidence that the country’s athletes would compete with passion, determination and excellence.
India has sent a contingent of more than 120 athletes to compete across eight able-bodied sports and five para sports, aiming to build on its rich legacy at the Commonwealth Games.
PM Modi’s message for Team India
In a post on X, the Prime Minister praised the dedication of India’s athletes and said they continue to inspire millions across the country.
“As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent. 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 always inspire countless Indians.”
As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent.
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 always inspire countless… pic.twitter.com/caenX35LdG
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 24, 2026
Mirabai leads India at the opening ceremony
Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu led the Indian contingent as the flag-bearer during the opening ceremony at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, marking the official start of India’s campaign.
India also made a promising start on the field, with Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki defeating Malta in the women’s pairs after a tense tie-break.
In the men’s singles, Putul Sonowal produced one of the standout results of the opening day by upsetting reigning world champion Ryan Bester in their Section D clash.
Sonowal will next face Cecil Alexander of the Falkland Islands, while Pinki and Rupa are set to take on South Africa in their next group-stage fixture.
With the opening ceremony complete and India’s campaign already underway, attention now turns to the coming days as the country’s athletes begin their quest for medals at Glasgow 2026.