Aichi-Nagoya, Sept. 26 -- President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday congratulated Indian marathon runner Sawan Barwal on winning the silver medal at the Asian Games 2026, hailing his performance that ended the country's four-decade wait for a podium finish in the event.

Barwal clocked 2:11:37 in the men's marathon to set a new national record and secure India's first Asian Games marathon medal in 44 years. Japan's Yamashita won the gold after pulling ahead in the closing stages.

"My heartiest congratulations to Sawan Barwal on winning Silver Medal in the Men's Marathon at the Asian Games 2026. Your exceptional performance has marked India's return to the Asian Games marathon podium after four decades. May this remarkable achievement inspire ...