North-East India has marked a strong and inspiring presence at the 69th National School Games (U-17), with a total of 104 players representing the region across various Taekwondo categories.
According to the official entries, 53 male and 51 female athletes from five participating North-Eastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Mizoram—are competing at the Khelo India Indoor Stadium in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
Notably, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura had no listed participants in this edition of the Games.
State-wise Participation Breakdown
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Arunachal Pradesh: 23 athletes (12 male, 11 female)
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Assam: 25 athletes (11 male, 14 female)
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Manipur: 25 athletes (13 male, 12 female)
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Meghalaya: 18 athletes (9 male, 9 female)
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Mizoram: 13 athletes (8 male, 5 female)
The strong representation from these states reflects the region’s increasing emergence as a powerhouse in martial arts and combat sports. Assam and Manipur, traditionally strong performers in Taekwondo and other combat events, lead the count with 25 players each.
A Platform for Rising Champions
With the Games being hosted in Itanagar, the event provides a morale boost to local athletes. Arunachal Pradesh, the host state, has fielded a robust contingent of 23 participants, signaling its growing sports infrastructure and athlete development programs.
The close parity between male and female athletes reflects a promising shift toward greater gender inclusivity in North-East sports.
Growing Aspirations in the North-East
The National School Games continue to serve as a stepping stone for many young talents aspiring to secure positions in national camps, Khelo India programs, and future international events. The participation of 104 young athletes from the region stands as a testament to the North-East’s rising influence in India’s sporting landscape.
As the competitions continue through December 1, all eyes remain on these promising athletes who are not just representing their states but carrying forward the sporting spirit of the entire North-East region.
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