Indian Olympic Association president P.T. Usha emphasizes the collective spirit and inspiration among athletes at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Kohima, India Jul 29, 2026 ALN: New Delhi: Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president P.T. Usha believes Team India’s growing medal haul at the 2026 Commonwealth Games is creating a wave of confidence across the contingent, saying every success in Glasgow is inspiring athletes yet to compete.
“That is one of the most beautiful aspects of a multi-sport Games. You see a weightlifter celebrating a swimmer’s performance, a boxer cheering for an athlete, or a lawn bowls player congratulating someone from another discipline. They may compete in different sports, but they wear one jersey and represent one nation. That creates a very special bond,” Usha said in an IOA release.
Reflecting on her own experience as an athlete, the legendary sprinter emphasized that the collective spirit within the Indian camp has become one of the team’s biggest strengths. Usha, who is a celebrated figure in Indian athletics, has often spoken about the importance of camaraderie and support among athletes, particularly in high-pressure environments like the Commonwealth Games.
“I have been an athlete myself, and I know how much it means to have your teammates standing behind you. The medals we have won so far have been celebrated by the entire contingent, and that shared sense of pride gives confidence to athletes who are yet to compete. It reminds everyone that we are here not as individuals, but as Team India,” she added.
India’s efforts in Glasgow have gained momentum in several sports. The team started by securing a medal in para powerlifting, and then the weightlifters had a series of excellent results. Olympic gold medallist Mirabai Chanu once again headed up India’s performances by winning a gold medal, and Gyaneshwari Devi and Bindiyarani Devi in turn strengthened the country’s standing as one of the Commonwealth’s top weightlifting nations with their own finishes on the podium. This success is particularly significant as it highlights India's growing prowess in weightlifting, a sport where the country has increasingly invested in talent development and training facilities.
The success has gone beyond the weightlifting platform; India’s para athletes have carried on their outstanding form by securing gold and bronze in the shot put, and Sarvesh Kushare has won a silver medal in the men’s high jump as a result of his determined performance under the difficult conditions in Glasgow. The achievements of para athletes are especially noteworthy as they showcase the dedication and resilience of athletes who often face additional challenges, both in their sport and in society.
The fact that the athletics camp has gained confidence as a result of those achievements is evident, since athletes such as Neeraj Chopra, Murali Sreeshankar, and Tejaswin Shankar are now preparing for their individual events. Each Indian medal has served to reinforce the idea that careful preparation and composure can lead to finishing on the podium at one of the most important events in Commonwealth sport. The ripple effect of success has instilled a sense of belief across different disciplines, encouraging athletes to push their limits and aim for excellence.
The same kind of atmosphere exists within the boxing camp, where Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain is still preparing as diligently and professionally as has always been the case with her career. Boxers who are younger, such as Jadumani Singh and Preeti, have gained both technical knowledge and confidence by training with more experienced fighters. This mentorship dynamic not only enhances the skills of emerging athletes but also fosters a culture of learning and growth within the team.
A feeling of unity is present among all the Indian athletes. Both able-bodied and para-athletes show just as much enthusiasm in celebrating one another’s successes, and the coaches, physiotherapists, doctors, and other support personnel go from one venue to another, offering encouragement just as much as technical help. This atmosphere has strengthened the belief that each medal belongs not to an individual athlete or to a single sport, but to the whole Indian team. Such solidarity can be a critical factor in the performance of athletes, as it bolsters their mental resilience and enhances their competitive spirit.
As the Commonwealth Games enter their final stage, India hopes to win a large number of medals. However, apart from the podium finishes and the records, the team thinks its greatest asset is the confidence that is passed on from one athlete to another. This sense of shared purpose and collective achievement is vital in a multi-sport event, where athletes from diverse backgrounds and disciplines come together to represent their nation. The ongoing success of Team India is not just a reflection of individual talent but also of a comprehensive support system that includes coaching, training, and psychological support, which are essential for peak performance.
Usha's insights into the spirit of the Indian contingent underline the significance of unity in sports. In the realm of competitive athletics, where the pressure can be immense, having a supportive environment can make a substantial difference in an athlete’s performance. The camaraderie fostered during events like the Commonwealth Games can lead to lasting relationships and networks that benefit athletes throughout their careers.
Furthermore, the increasing visibility and success of Indian athletes on international platforms have implications beyond sports. It serves as an inspiration to younger generations, encouraging them to pursue sports and physical fitness as viable career options. As India continues to make strides in the global sports arena, the potential for growth in various sports disciplines is immense. The achievements of athletes at the Commonwealth Games can also lead to increased investment in sports infrastructure and training programs, which are crucial for nurturing future talent.
In conclusion, as Team India continues to compete at the Commonwealth Games, the emphasis on unity, shared success, and mutual encouragement among athletes stands out as a hallmark of their journey. The collective spirit that P.T. Usha highlights is not just about winning medals but about building a legacy of sportsmanship and camaraderie that can inspire future athletes to reach new heights. The ongoing competition in Glasgow is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all athletes, coaches, and support staff, and it heralds a promising future for Indian sports on the global stage.
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