Athletics has long been one of India's strongest Commonwealth Games disciplines, from Milkha Singh's gold in Cardiff in 1958 to later success from names such as Hima Das. As Glasgow prepares to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, six runners stand out for India.
India's running group arrives with confidence after strong gains in distance events and the 400m programme. Several of the leading names have trained at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), and the squad includes Gulveer Singh, Parul Chaudhary, Vishal TK, Rajesh Ramesh, Santosh Kumar Tamilarasan and Rashdeep Kaur.
Distance strength and record runs
Gulveer Singh has led India's distance surge. The Asian champion has set national records in the 3,000m, 5,000m and 10,000m over the past two seasons. Earlier this year, he became the first Indian to run a half marathon in under an hour, and he enters Glasgow in career-best form.
Parul Chaudhary is another key name. She is an Olympian, Asian Games champion and national record holder in the 3000m steeplechase and 5000m. Known for strong
finishes in major events, she remains one of India's most dependable athletes in the distance races.
India's 400m rise
Indian sprinting reached a new mark this year through Vishal TK, who became the first Indian man to run the 400m under 45 seconds. The 22-year-old clocked 44.98 seconds for a national record, and Glasgow gives him another stage to test himself against top competition.
Rajesh Ramesh adds experience to the squad. He is an Asian Games gold medallist and part of India's Asian record-breaking men's 4x400m relay team. His role will be important as India continues to push in relay events at the Commonwealth Games.
Relay depth and wider progress
Santhosh Kumar Tamilarasan also heads to Glasgow after a strong season. He won bronze in the 400m hurdles at the Asian Championships and was part of India's gold medal-winning mixed relay team. His rise points to the depth now building in India's sprint programme.
Rashdeep Kaur is part of that same relay push. Consistent in the 400m, she has become a reliable quarter-miler in India's women's relay plans. Together, these six runners reflect India's progress on the track and its aim to add to a long Commonwealth Games legacy.
