Double gold, Games record! Nishad Kumar joins elite Indian club with historic feat

Nishad Kumar

NEW DELHI: Nishad Kumar scripted history at the Asian Para Games 2026 on Tuesday, winning his second gold medal in as many days to become only the third Indian to claim two golds in a single edition of the continental para-sport showpiece.The two-time Paralympic silver medallist clinched the men's high jump T47 title with a Games-record effort of 2.04m in Aichi-Nagoya, a day after winning gold in the men's long jump T47 event with a best effort of 7.11m.

Nishad's double-gold performance puts him in an elite club alongside Ankur Dhama and armless archer Sheetal Devi, who had 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 struck gold in the women's individual compound open and mixed team compound open events.

Nishad breaks Games record after long jump triumph

Known primarily for his high-jump exploits, Nishad demonstrated his versatility by adding the long jump crown to his collection before returning to his speciality on Tuesday.His 2.04m clearance secured the gold and established a new Games record in the men's high jump T47 category, which is meant for athletes with upper-limb impairments.The Indian's latest triumph adds to an impressive career that includes a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics and a world championship gold in the high jump.

Nishad's journey has been marked by extraordinary resilience. His right arm was severed by a grass-cutting machine at his family's farm in Amb, Himachal Pradesh, when he was just six years old.

PM Modi praises Nishad's versatility and determination

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had congratulated Nishad after his long jump gold on Monday, highlighting the significance of winning the event on his Asian Para Games debut."Very proud of Nishad Kumar on winning Gold in the Men’s Long Jump T47 event at the Asian Para Games 2026 with an outstanding jump.

Winning a Gold on his debut in this event makes the achievement even more special. His versatility, determination and sporting excellence are truly inspiring. Wishing him the very best for the endeavours ahead," PM Modi was quoted as saying in a post by PMO India.

The Prime Minister's message came after Nishad delivered a commanding performance in the long jump, recording 7.11m twice in the final.With two gold medals and a Games record, Nishad has emerged as one of India's standout performers in Aichi-Nagoya.