MANIPUR CM FELICITATES THREE ASIAN GAMES HOCKEY GOLD MEDALLISTS
IMPHAL, October 13 (NEPS): Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday felicitated three hockey players from the State who represented India at the 20th Asian Games 2026 in Aichi–Nagoya, Japan, and won gold medals.
The felicitation ceremony was held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Mantripukhri, Imphal. The players were Sanglakpam Nilakanta Sharma from the Indian men’s hockey squad and Pukhrambam Sushila Chanu and Kharibam Bichu Devi from the women’s squad.
During the meeting, Khemchand Singh observed that Indian hockey had improved significantly in recent years. He said the gold medal victories by both the men’s and women’s teams at the Asian Games reflected the sport’s progress and marked a positive development for Indian hockey.
The players requested suitable employment in State Government departments in recognition of their achievements and the laurels they had brought to Manipur. In response, the Chief Minister advised them to submit applications to the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports.
On a request from one of the players for a comprehensive policy for successful sportspersons in the State, Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports Naorem Praveen Singh informed that a sports policy was under formulation.
In an interview with the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), the players expressed happiness over the warm reception accorded to them by the Chief Minister.
One of the players observed that Khemchand Singh’s experience as a taekwondo practitioner enabled him to better understand the needs and aspirations of sportspersons.
The players also encouraged the younger generation to pursue their dreams and never give up. They urged parents to support their children in achieving their aspirations and advised young sportspersons to work hard and remain disciplined.
