Ashok Kumar Malik Wins Silver Medal at Asian Para Games 2026 in Powerlifting Men's 65kg
Indian para powerlifter Ashok Kumar Malik secured a silver medal in the Men's 65kg category at the 5th Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, on October 20, 2026. The 37-year-old achieved a best lift of 192kg, marking India's first powerlifting medal at the Games.
Veteran Indian para powerlifter Ashok Kumar Malik has added another prestigious medal to his decorated career, clinching a silver in the Men's 65kg category at the 5th Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya. The 37-year-old showcased remarkable strength and determination at the Nagoya City Trade and Industry Center on Tuesday, securing the podium finish with a best lift of 192kg. Manish Narwal Wins Silver Medal at Asian Para Games 2026 in Shooting P1-Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1.
Malik's silver medal is a significant achievement for the Indian contingent, marking their inaugural medal in para powerlifting at these Games. The highly anticipated final saw a strong field, with Malik delivering a consistent performance to earn his place on the dais.
Ashok Kumar Malik's Performance on the Day
The Indian lifter began his campaign with a successful attempt of 187kg, setting a solid foundation. He then improved his personal mark with a powerful second lift of 192kg. While he attempted to push for gold with a 201kg lift in his final effort, it proved unsuccessful. Ultimately, China's formidable Yi Zou claimed the gold medal in the category, with Malik finishing as the commendable runner-up. Asian Para Games 2026 Medal Tally Updated: India Win Four Golds to Finish Day 1 in Fourth Place.
Key Lifts for Ashok Kumar Malik
| Attempt | Weight Lifted |
|---|---|
| 1st | 187kg |
| 2nd | 192kg |
| 3rd | 201kg (Failed) |
Context and Significance
This silver medal at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games further solidifies Ashok Kumar Malik's standing as one of India's premier para powerlifters. Born on April 27, 1989, Malik has consistently represented India on the international stage, demonstrating exceptional resilience throughout his career. His prior achievements include a bronze medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou and a silver at the Para Powerlifting World Cup in Egypt in March 2024.
Just months prior to his triumph in Japan, Malik also competed at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, where he narrowly missed a medal, finishing fourth with a personal best lift of 200kg. His current silver medal showcases his return to the podium and highlights his unwavering commitment to the sport. Deepthi Jeevanji Wins Gold Medal at Asian Para Games 2026 in Women’s 400m T20.
The Games So Far
The 5th Asian Para Games 2026, hosted by Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, Japan, commenced on October 18 and will run until October 24, 2026. Featuring 489 events across 18 sports, the Games bring together approximately 2,590 athletes from 45 nations. Para powerlifting is a key discipline, with events for athletes with lower limb disabilities and those of short stature, adhering to rules similar to a standard bench press but with specific adaptations for para-athletes.
Ashok Kumar Malik's silver medal is a testament to his enduring dedication and a proud moment for India at the ongoing Asian Para Games, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the competition in powerlifting and other disciplines. The Indian contingent will be looking to build on this early success in the coming days.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 20, 2026 10:07 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).