Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent competing at the Commonwealth Games 2026, expressing confidence that the country’s athletes would compete with ‘passion, determination and a spirit of excellence’ as the multi-sport event got underway in Glasgow.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “As the Commonwealth Glasgow 2026 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.”
The Commonwealth Games were officially declared open by King Charles III during a colourful opening ceremony at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on Thursday, marking the return of the event to the Scottish city for the first time since 2014.
Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain led the Indian contingent during the Parade of Nations. Mirabai, the Olympic silver medallist in weightlifting, carried the Tricolour as India’s flag-bearer, while Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Lovlina carried the ceremonial Commonwealth baton.
India has fielded a contingent of 123 athletes competing across eight able-bodied sports and five para sports as it aims to build on its strong Commonwealth Games legacy. The Games are being held from July 23 to August 2, with athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories competing over 11 days across 10 sports.
(With agency inputs)
