PM Modi extends best wishes to India's 124-member Commonwealth Games contingent

'My best wishes to Indian contingent', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said as he sent his support to India's 124-member team heading to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He expressed confidence in their passion and determination as the country prepares to begin competition with bowls on Thursday.

The delegation will represent India at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and is set to compete across eight sports and five para disciplines. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered encouragement to the athletes and officials, emphasising his faith in their commitment. Olympic champions Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu have been identified as the leading medal prospects for India in athletics and weightlifting, respectively.

India’s campaign opens with bowls on Thursday, marking the start of their schedule in Glasgow. The contingent of 124 athletes and support staff will spread across the eight sports entries and the five para events allocated to Team India. Officials have highlighted the presence of several experienced competitors alongside emerging talent within the squad.

Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu stand out among the athletes expected to carry medal hopes for the country, positioned as leaders in athletics and weightlifting, respectively. Their roles have been singled out in advance coverage as focal points for India's aspirations during the meet. The pairing of established champions with other entrants underscores the delegation’s balance of experience and depth.

Prime Minister Modi’s message underscored encouragement rather than tactical direction, offering moral support as the Games commence. His statement framed the contingent’s participation as an opportunity to demonstrate dedication on a major international stage. The acknowledgement from the country’s leader highlighted national interest in the team’s performance.

As competition gets underway in Glasgow, attention will be on how the athletes translate preparation into results across the diverse programme. The Indian contingent’s schedule, beginning with bowls and extending through the listed sports and para disciplines, sets the sequence of opportunities for podium finishes. The leadership of athletes like Chopra and Chanu will be watched closely as the Games progress.