Chennai, July 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Monday congratulated weightlifter Raja Muthupandi for winning the silver medal in the men’s 65kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland, describing the achievement as a matter of immense pride for the state.
The Chief Minister also announced a cash reward of ₹30 lakh in recognition of the athlete’s outstanding performance and expressed confidence that the accomplishment would inspire young sportspersons across Tamil Nadu.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Raja Muthupandi for winning the silver medal in the men’s 65kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. His success is a matter of immense pride for Tamil Nadu. May this achievement inspire our youth, and I wish him many more victories that will bring honour to both Tamil Nadu and the nation,” Vijay said.
He lauded the weightlifter’s determination and described his medal-winning performance on the international stage as a significant achievement for the state.
Announcing the ₹30 lakh incentive, the Chief Minister said the Tamil Nadu government would honour Muthupandi’s success as a mark of recognition for his contribution to Indian sports.
Representing India in the men’s 65kg event, Raja Muthupandi, a native of Thoothukudi district, displayed remarkable resilience throughout the competition.
In the snatch, he failed to clear 126kg in his opening attempt but successfully lifted the weight in his second attempt. His bid to lift 129kg in the final attempt was unsuccessful, leaving him with a best lift of 126kg.
He bounced back strongly in the clean and jerk after failing his opening attempt at 158kg. Muthupandi then successfully lifted 160kg in his second attempt, taking his combined total to 286kg, which secured him the silver medal.
The Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow have brought together nearly 3,000 athletes from 74 countries. India has fielded a 123-member contingent across multiple disciplines and has continued to strengthen its medal tally with impressive performances.
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