Shot Putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor to Carry India's Flag at Asian Games 2026

Two‑time Asian Games shot put champion Tajinderpal Singh Toor has been appointed as one of India’s flag bearers for the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya. Toor will share the honour with Olympic pistol star Manu Bhaker, reflecting the importance of both field events and shooting in India’s medal prospects.

Toor entered the Asian Games arena as the defending champion in shot put and retains his status as a key contender for gold. His selection comes as India prepares a massive contingent of over 500 athletes across 37 sports, hoping to improve on the 107 medals won at the 2023 Hangzhou edition.

The ceremony will be held at Paloma Mizuho Stadium on 18 September, running from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. IST. The Games, overseen by the Olympic Council of Asia, feature 45 nations and regions competing in the continent’s premier multi‑sport event, which takes place every four years.

Japan, the host nation, marks its third time organizing the Games after Tokyo 1958 and Hiroshima 1994. India aims to defend titles in cricket, kabaddi, and men's hockey, while athletes such as P. V. Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, and Lovlina Borgohain lead the charge in their respective disciplines. In athletics, more than 75 Indian competitors, including Gaurveer Singh and Tejaswi Shankar, will battle for podium finishes.