Imphal, August 10, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday felicitated weightlifter Chanambam Rishikanta Singh for winning the silver medal at the 23rd Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland.
Congratulating the athlete, Khemchand praised Rishikanta’s performance, saying his achievement had brought laurels to Manipur and the country and made the people of the state proud.
The Chief Minister said the state government was considering increasing incentives for sportspersons who win medals at national and international competitions. He noted that many athletes from Manipur come from economically weaker backgrounds and overcome financial constraints and other challenges to excel at the highest level.
“Perseverance and hard work are the prerequisites for becoming a successful sportsperson,” Khemchand said, while highlighting Manipur’s long-standing tradition of supporting athletes through local clubs and community organisations.
He said the success of sportspersons from the state reflected not only individual talent and dedication but also the strong sporting culture and community support that has developed in Manipur over the years.
Rishikanta expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister and the state government for their encouragement and support. Sharing his experience, he urged athletes from financially weaker families not to lose heart if they could not afford specialised diets often associated with competitive sports.
Using his own journey as an example, Rishikanta said determination, discipline, hard work and perseverance could help athletes overcome financial difficulties and achieve success.
He also expressed confidence that he would continue working hard to win more medals for Manipur and India.
The Chief Minister appreciated the contribution of Rishikanta’s family and the wider sporting community in supporting his career.
Home Minister and Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, several MLAs, YAS Secretary N. Praveen and Rishikanta’s parents attended the felicitation ceremony.
Rishikanta won the silver medal in the men’s 71 kg weightlifting category with a combined lift of 264 kg. Malaysia’s Bin Kasdan Mohamad Aniq claimed gold with a total lift of 273 kg.
FOLLOW NOW
