Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 7: Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel will lead the Indian contingent as flag bearers at the Opening Ceremony of the Asian Para Games, which will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from October 18 to 24.

Para badminton star Bhagat has won six Asian Para Games medals between 2014 and 2023, including two gold and four bronze medals. Para table tennis player Patel has won two Asian Para Games medals during the same period, securing one silver and one bronze.

Calling it a proud moment, Patel said carrying the Tricolour meant representing something much bigger than oneself.

The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) will formally see off the Indian contingent at a special ceremony on Thursday. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will attend the event as the chief guest, while Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse will be the guest of honour.

PCI president Devendra Jhajharia said Bhagat and Patel were exceptional champions whose achievements and resilience made them fitting representatives of the Indian contingent at the Asian Para Games.