India secures medals across athletics at Asian Games 2026

India's athletics contingent mounted a determined challenge across multiple events at the 2026 Asian Games, though came agonizingly close to converting several strong performances into gold medals. Long jumper Ancy Sojan produced a commanding display with her best effort of 6.53 metres, only to be overtaken in the final round by China's Huang Yingying, who cleared 6.55 metres to claim the title. The two-centimetre difference saw Ancy settle for silver, reflecting the razor-thin margins at elite competition levels.

The disappointment extended to the women's long jump competition, where fellow Indian athlete Shaili Singh's best jump of 6.42 metres fell just short of the medal positions. China's Mengyi Tan edged past her with a 6.46-metre effort, denying India a potential third medal in the event.

In the men's high jump, Sarvesh Kushare demonstrated competitive prowess by leading through much of the final before ultimately surrendering the advantage to Chinese Taipei's Chao. The result added another silver to India's tally for the day.

Parul Chaudhary and Harita Bhadra provided further positives for the Indian contingent, securing bronze medals in their respective events. The day's performances underscored India's growing strength in track and field, even as the narrow margins highlighted the competitive depth at the Asian Games.