Sharmila Dhankar Wins India’s First Para Athletics Gold Medal in Commonwealth Games 2026

Sharmila Dhankar created history at the Commonwealth Games 2026 by becoming the first Indian para athlete to win a gold medal in para athletics. She secured the top position in the women’s shot put F57 event with a season best throw of 9.81 metres in Glasgow. Her remarkable achievement also ended India’s 20 year wait for a para athletics medal at the Commonwealth Games.

Sharmila Dhankar Wins India’s First Para Athletics Gold Medal in Commonwealth Games 2026

Sharmila Dhankar’s historic performance highlighted India’s growing strength in para sports, while several other Indian athletes also added medals during the competition.

• Sharmila Dhankar won the women’s shot put F57 event with a season best throw of 9.81 metres in Glasgow, becoming India’s first ever Commonwealth Games para athletics gold medallist.
• Her victory ended India’s 20 year wait for a para athletics medal at the Commonwealth Games. 
• The previous medal was won by Ranjith Kumar Jayaseelan in the men’s seated discus throw event at the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Also Read: Mirabai Chanu Wins India’s First Gold at Commonwealth Games 2026 

What is F57 Classification in Para Athletics?

The women’s shot put F57 category is meant for athletes with lower limb impairments, limb deficiencies or reduced muscle power, making Sharmila’s achievement a major milestone in international para athletics.

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Commonwealth Games 2026

The Commonwealth Games 2026 is being held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026, bringing together athletes from 72 Commonwealth nations and territories. 

• Host and Schedule: Glasgow, Scotland, is hosting the Commonwealth Games 2026 from 23 July to 2 August 2026, featuring athletes from 72 Commonwealth nations and territories.
• Organising Body: The Games are conducted under the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), continuing the international multi sport tradition that began with the first edition in 1930.
• Features: Glasgow 2026 introduces indoor bowls for able bodied and para competitions, while the Queen’s Baton Relay, opening ceremony and closing ceremony remain important traditions.
• India’s Participation: India is competing in its 19th Commonwealth Games with a 191 member contingent, including 126 athletes and 65 officials, while Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
• India’s Performance: As of 28 July 2026, India ranks 8th in the medal table with 2 gold, 5 silver and 3 bronze medals, taking the overall tally to 10 medals.

Also Read: Commonwealth Games 2030