The eight North Eastern states of India are set to make a strong impact at the upcoming 7th Khelo India Youth Games 2025, with a total of 439 athletes nominated to represent the region. Bihar is hosting the KIYG, 2025 from 4th to 15th May and approximately 5000 athlete from the nation will showcase their skill in 28 sports discipline. e-Sports has been introduced as a demo event, focused exclusively on competitive gameplay. Therefore, e-Sports participation is not included in this count.
This includes a significant female contingent of 196 athletes, making up approximately 45% of the total representation — a clear sign of rising gender equity and growing support for girls in sports across the Northeast.
State-wise Athlete Participation (as on 2nd May 2025):
Arunachal Pradesh: 30 athletes (12 female, 18 male)
Assam: 106 athletes (65 female, 41 male)
Manipur: 164 athletes (78 female, 86 male)
Meghalaya: 44 athletes (11 female, 33 male)
Mizoram: 39 athletes (6 female, 33 male)
Nagaland: 27 athletes (8 female, 19 male)
Sikkim: 15 athletes (7 female, 8 male)
Tripura: 14 athletes (9 female, 5 male)
(The data may vary as the final nominations are still underway)
Among them, Manipur leads with the highest number of participants (164), followed by Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Even smaller states like Sikkim and Tripura are making their mark, contributing to the growing sports culture in the region.
The Khelo India Youth Games have emerged as a vital platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and bring pride to their states. The rising female representation from the Northeast is a positive indicator of inclusiveness and grassroots sports development.