Double gold, game record! Nishad Kumar joins the elite Indian club with a historic Asian Para Games feat

NEW DELHI: Nishad Kumar on Tuesday scripted the 2026 Asian Para Games by winning his second gold medal in as many days and becoming only the third Indian to win two golds in a single edition of the continental para sport.The two-time Paralympic silver medalist clinched the men’s T47 high jump title with a record 2.04m in Aichi-Nagoya, a day after winning gold in the men’s T47 long jump with a best of 7.11m.Nishad’s double gold performance puts him in an elite club alongside Ankur Dhama and armless archer Sheetal Devi, who both won two gold medals at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China.Dhama won the men’s 5000m T11 and 1500m T11 titles, while Sheetal won gold in the open women’s individual and mixed team events.

Nishad broke the games record after his long jump triumph

Best known for his high jump, Nishad proved his versatility by adding the long jump crown to his collection before returning to his specialty on Tuesday.His clearance of 2.04m secured the gold and set a new Games record in the men’s T47 high jump category, which is designed for athletes with upper limb disabilities.The Indian’s latest triumph adds to an impressive career that includes a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics and a gold at the World Championships in high jump.Nishad’s journey was characterized by extraordinary resilience. His right hand was severed by a grass cutting machine on the family farm in Amb, Himachal Pradesh when he was just six years old.

PM Modi praises Nishad’s versatility and determination

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated Nishad after his long jump gold and emphasized the significance of winning the event on his debut at the Asian Para Games.“Very proud of Nishad Kumar who won gold in the Men’s Long Jump T47 event at the 2026 Asian Para Games with an outstanding jump. Winning gold on his debut at this event makes this achievement even more special. His versatility, determination and sporting excellence are truly inspiring. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” PM Modi was quoted as saying by PMO Modi.The Prime Minister’s message came after Nishad produced a commanding performance in the long jump, clearing 7.11m twice in the final.With two gold medals and a Games record, Nishad became one of the most prominent Indian artists in Aichi-Nagoya.