Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh felicitated the three hockey gold medalists from the state who represented India at the 20th Asian Games 2026 held in Aichi–Nagoya, Japan. The ceremony took place at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Mantripukhri, Imphal, on October 13.
The gold medalists are Sanglakpam Nilakanta Sharma from the men’s squad, and Pukhrambam Sushila Chanu and Kharibam Bichu Devi from the women’s squad, as confirmed by a press release from the Manipur Chief Minister’s Office.
During the meeting, Khemchand Singh highlighted the significant improvement in Indian hockey in recent years. He stated that the gold medal victories in both the men’s and women’s hockey events at the Games indicate positive progress for the sport nationally.
Responding to the players’ requests for suitable employment opportunities in state government departments as recognition for their achievements, the Chief Minister advised them to submit applications to the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Addressing the players’ appeal for a comprehensive policy for successful sportspersons in the state, Naorem Praveen Singh, Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports, said that a sports policy is currently under formulation.
In a subsequent interview with the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, the players expressed their appreciation for the warm reception by Chief Minister Khemchand Singh. One player remarked that the Chief Minister’s personal experience as a Taekwondo athlete helps him understand the needs and aspirations of sportspersons.
The players encouraged the younger generation to pursue their dreams with determination and urged parents to support their children’s ambitions. They also emphasized the importance of hard work and discipline for aspiring athletes.