Glasgow, August 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday congratulated judoka Asmita Dey after her historic Commonwealth Games 2026 triumph, saying the young athlete’s achievement has brought pride to the state and will inspire future generations of sportspersons.
Asmita, 23, created history by becoming the first Indian judoka to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games after defeating Canada’s Heidi Quach in the women’s 48kg final. The contest went into the Golden Score phase, where Asmita secured victory with a decisive 2-1 result.
“Asmita Dey, a daughter of Tripura, has once again brought glory to the state on the international stage. Her dedication, hard work, and self-confidence will continue to inspire the younger generation of the country,” Dr. Saha said.
Asmita’s journey to the top has been marked by determination and resilience. Born on March 22, 2003, in Belonia, Tripura, she comes from a modest background. Her father Arjun Kumar Dey runs a bicycle repair shop. She initially pursued athletics in the 800-metre event before a coach identified her potential in judo and encouraged her to take up the sport.
She trained under Bina Debnath at Belonia Vidyapeeth Coaching Centre before joining the Tripura Sports School under coach Manik Lal Deb. In 2018, her performances earned her a place at the Sports Authority of India Regional Centre in Bhopal, where she trained under coach Yashpal Solanki and later became part of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme development group.
At the Commonwealth Games, Asmita defeated Scotland’s Eva Ewing by ippon in the quarterfinals before overcoming home favourite Summer Shaw in the semifinals. Her composed performance in the final secured India’s maiden judo gold medal in Commonwealth Games history.
Tripura Sports Minister Tinku Roy also praised the judoka, calling her achievement a source of national pride and an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.
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