New Delhi, September 20 (Daily Kiran) : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his congratulations to the Indian women’s 10- team for winning a silver medal at the . He also commended Ilavenil Valarivan for securing silver in the individual 10-meter air rifle event.
The silver medal for the women’s team was determined based on their collective qualification score. The trio achieved a total score of 1898.0, earning them second place on the podium. Sonam secured a commendable third position with a score of 634.1 in qualification, while Ilavenil finished seventh with a score of 633.5. Vidarsha scored 630.4, placing her 12th individually, which solidified the team’s silver medal.
The Prime Minister’s Office shared on social media platform X, “Hard work and teamwork yield remarkable results. Proud of Sonam Uttam Maskar, Ilavenil Valarivan, and Vidarsha K. Vinod for winning silver in the women’s 10-meter air rifle event at the . Their success will inspire many athletes in the future.”
Ilavenil Valarivan, who previously won a gold medal at the 2019 World Cup, also took home silver in the individual 10-meter air rifle competition.
In another tweet, the Prime Minister praised Ilavenil, stating, “Indian shooters continue to make us proud. Congratulations to Ilavenil Valarivan for winning silver in the women’s 10-meter air rifle individual event at the Asian Games. This was her second medal of the day, making this achievement even more special. Wishing her the best for future endeavors.”
President Droupadi Murmu also took to X to congratulate the team, saying, “Congratulations to Ilavenil Valarivan, Vidarsha K. Vinod, and Sonam Uttam Maskar for winning silver in the women’s 10-meter event at the Asian Games 2026. Your outstanding achievement has opened India’s medal account in the games and elevated the nation’s pride. Best wishes for your future success.”
In a separate tweet, the President congratulated Ilavenil on her individual silver medal, stating, “Your excellent performance has enhanced the country’s reputation. I wish you all the best for even greater achievements in the future.”
Home Minister Amit Shah also congratulated the team on X, noting, “India has begun its medal journey at the Asian Games with a silver medal. Congratulations to Ilavenil Valarivan, Sonam Uttam Maskar, and Vidarsha K. Vinod for winning silver in the women’s 10-meter rifle (team) event. Best wishes for future competitions.”
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju praised the Indian women’s team, saying, “India’s first medal at the Asian Games 2026. Congratulations to Ilavenil Valarivan, Sonam Maskar, and Vidarsha K. Vinod for winning silver in the women’s 10-meter air rifle team event. A fantastic start to Team India’s medal campaign. Wishing our champions and the entire team even more success in the future.”