Arunachal Pradesh Shines at Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, Secures 5th Position
Itanagar: Pema Khandu on Monday flagged in and felicitated the state contingent that participated in the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 held in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, from March 25 to April 3, congratulating athletes and coaches for their commendable performance.
Arunachal Pradesh secured an impressive 5th position among 30 States and Union Territories and emerged as the best-performing state from the Northeast, winning a total of 11 medals, including 6 gold, 1 silver, and 4 bronze.
Addressing athletes, coaches, and officials during the felicitation ceremony, the Chief Minister termed the achievement a proud moment for the entire state. He attributed the success to the athletes’ dedication, discipline, and hard work, along with the support and guidance of coaches and staff.
Highlighting the medal tally, Khandu informed that weightlifting accounted for the majority of medals, with five gold, one silver, and two bronze. Athletics contributed one gold medal in the 500 metres event, while both men’s and women’s football teams secured bronze medals.
Congratulating the contingent, Pema Khandu said the performance reflects the growing sports culture in Arunachal Pradesh and increasing youth participation in competitive sports. He also acknowledged the efforts of team officials, including the Chief de Mission and coaching staff, in ensuring strong preparation.
Referring to the Khelo India initiative launched by Narendra Modi in 2017-18, the Chief Minister noted that sports development has gained significant momentum across the country. He added that Arunachal Pradesh has also seen considerable improvements in sports infrastructure over the past decade.
Khandu stated that the state has won over 60 medals in various Khelo India competitions since their inception and has improved its standing in national events, including the recent National Games of India held in Uttarakhand.
Emphasizing the role of sports in youth development, he said that sports help instill discipline, leadership, and determination. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure across districts and promoting grassroots talent.
The Chief Minister also highlighted preparations for upcoming national competitions, including the 39th National Games 2027 to be hosted in Meghalaya, where Arunachal Pradesh will host one discipline. He expressed confidence that the state will continue to improve its performance.
He further spoke about the state’s “Mission Olympics 2028 and 2032” initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent for international competitions, including the Olympics.
Khandu also underlined the importance of coordination among the Sports Department, Sports Authority of Arunachal, and the Arunachal Olympic Association to strengthen the overall sports ecosystem.
Highlighting future potential, he pointed to the state’s focus on adventure sports such as skiing, rafting, kayaking, and other water sports, leveraging Arunachal Pradesh’s unique geography.
Congratulating all medal winners and officials, Pema Khandu assured continued support from the government, stating that their achievements have brought pride to the state and that all necessary assistance will be extended to help them excel further.
The ceremony was also attended by Tapir Gao, along with senior officials from the Sports and Youth Affairs Department and various sports bodies.
