Kolkata: “My aim at Aichi-Nagoya is simple: to give my best in every match and bring home medals for India,” said Pramod Bhagat after being named the flagbearer for India, alongside table tennis star Bhavina Patel, at the upcoming Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya.“I have been fortunate to win medals at the previous editions of Asian Para Games, and I want to build on that,” the para shuttler, who has won six Asian Para Games medals between 2014 and 2023, including two golds, told TOI on Wednesday.The honour of bearing the Tricolour at the continental event has brought together two of India’s most accomplished para-athletes, whose careers have been defined by excellence, resilience and a relentless pursuit of sporting success. Together, the duo have won eight Asian Para Games medals and will now lead the Indian contingent at the fifth edition of the competition from Oct 18 to 24.“It is a very proud moment for me to be chosen as India’s flag bearer. When you carry the Tricolour, you realise that you are representing something much bigger than yourself. I hope all our athletes compete with confidence, enjoy the moment and give their very best for India,” said Bhavina, who has won two Asian Para Games medals across two editions of the competition.India won a record-breaking 111 medals, including 29 golds, at the last edition of the event and will aim to surpass that tally this time around.“The competition will be tough, but I have prepared hard with my coaches and support team, and I am ready for the challenge. Every point I play will be for the Tricolour,” said the 38-year-old Pramod, who hails from Odisha’s Bargarh district.The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) will formally see off the Indian contingent with a special send-off ceremony on Thursday in New Delhi.While Pramod and Bhavina have been at the forefront of India’s rise in para sport, several younger para-athletes will also get the chance to showcase their skills on the continental stage.“It is a matter of immense pride for us to have Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel lead the Indian contingent at the opening ceremony. Both are exceptional champions who have contributed immensely to the growth of Indian para sport,” PCI president Devendra Jhajharia said in a statement after the announcement.“Their journey, achievements and resilience make them fitting representatives of the Indian contingent, and I am confident they will inspire our athletes as they embark on this important campaign.”
