India Faces Challenges Ahead of Asian Para Games
As the Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya approach, India's preparations are hindered by selection controversies and administrative issues. With less than a week until the event, athletes in para shooting, cycling, badminton, table tennis, and boccia are facing uncertainty.
On Monday, nine para shooters expressed their dissatisfaction to Sports Authority of India officials regarding the exclusion of chief coach J P Nautiyal and assistant coach Shivam Tyagi from the team. Athletes, including Manish Narwal and Mona Agarwal, voiced concerns about competing without Nautiyal, who has guided them to significant international success.
The Indian Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has recently cleared pending disciplines, allowing the contingent to proceed, although some athletes still await final approvals. The delays have also impacted the distribution of competition kits, leaving athletes with insufficient time to prepare before their departure.