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SLSA and Audax FA Impress in Arunachal Youth Premier League 2026

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Arunachal Youth Premier League 2026 players contest aerial header during youth football match at Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium Yupia

APFA’s youth football platform continues to strengthen grassroots development in Arunachal Pradesh.

The Arunachal Youth Premier League (AYPL) 2026 continues to showcase the rising standard of grassroots football in Arunachal Pradesh, with young players displaying impressive skills, teamwork and competitive spirit at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium, Yupia.

The tournament, organised by the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA), has created a much-needed competitive pathway for young footballers, allowing them to experience structured league football while developing their game against quality opponents.

Among the standout performers so far, Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy (SLSA) and Audax Football Academy (Audax FA) have caught attention with their strong performances and organised style of play.

SLSA have shown excellent progress in the competition with consistent performances. The academy began its campaign with a determined 2–0 victory over Sagalee Football Club, showing discipline, coordination and strong team chemistry. They continued their impressive run with a commanding 11–0 win against Hornbill Football Academy, highlighting their attacking strength and defensive stability.

Audax Football Academy have also announced themselves as one of the exciting teams of the league. Their dominant 11–0 victory over Hornbill Football Academy reflected the quality of preparation, confidence and talent among their young players.

More than just results, AYPL has become an important platform for identifying and nurturing young footballers in the state. Regular competitive exposure at an early stage is expected to help players improve technically, physically and mentally as they prepare for higher levels of football.

The initiative reflects APFA’s continued commitment towards building a stronger football ecosystem in Arunachal Pradesh. Under the leadership of Secretary General Kipa Ajay, the association has been actively focusing on creating more opportunities through organised tournaments and development programmes. His emphasis on strengthening grassroots football has played an important role in providing young players with platforms where talent can be discovered and developed.

Continuing its efforts to expand football opportunities across all categories, APFA is also preparing for the Arunachal Women’s League 2026, scheduled to begin from July 15 at Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium, Yupia. Featuring teams including Monyul FC, Kamle DFA, Matai United FC, Kurung Kumey DFA and Keyi Panyor FC, the women’s league marks another important step towards promoting inclusiveness and encouraging more participation in football across Arunachal Pradesh.

With initiatives like AYPL and the Women’s League, Arunachal Pradesh football is witnessing a steady movement towards a stronger and more competitive future.

Nagaland Tops Senior National Pencak Silat 2026 With Six Gold Medals

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Nagaland team celebrates overall championship win at 14th Senior National Pencak Silat Championship 2026
Nagaland team celebrates overall championship win at 14th Senior National Pencak Silat Championship 2026

Nagaland scripted history by winning the Overall Champions title at the 14th Senior National Pencak Silat Championship 2026, which concluded at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre in Shillong after three days of intense competition.

Nagaland secured the national crown with six gold medals, narrowly defeating host state Meghalaya, which produced a remarkable performance to finish as runners-up with four gold medals. The All India Police Sports Control Board claimed third position.

The championship brought together more than 1,500 martial artists from 36 states, Union Territories, and central sports boards. Athletes competed across multiple categories in combat (Tanding) and artistic (Seni) disciplines.

Nagaland Dominates National Stage

Nagaland finished at the top of the medal standings with six gold, two silver, and one bronze medal, taking its total medal tally to nine.

The state’s title-winning campaign was led by international silver medalist Kitenlo K. Thono, who secured gold in the senior male combat category. Multi-time Asian and National Games medalist Hinokali continued her impressive form with another gold-winning performance.

Khelo India dual-gold medalist Kevin added another major achievement by dominating the senior combat category, while Liike Kibami contributed another crucial gold medal.

Hatneinem Khongsai and Avikali V. Shequi completed Nagaland’s championship-winning run with strong performances across senior artistic and fighting events.

Meghalaya Secures Historic Runner-Up Finish

Host state Meghalaya delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament by winning 12 medals, including four gold, two silver, and six bronze medals.

Gold medal winners for Meghalaya included Banrilang Muktieh, who claimed the Senior Female Combat (Tanding) -65kg title, and Rimchi Sangma, who won gold in the Senior Female Artistic Solo (Seni Tunggal) category.

Tobias Klein and Philip Khymdeit combined brilliantly to capture gold in the Senior Male Artistic Doubles (Seni Ganda) event.

Meghalaya’s silver medalists included Viviana Mallai in Female Combat -70kg and Tapash Rabha in Male Combat -85kg.

The state’s bronze medals were won by Khamtimon Rympei, Domonika Syiem, Iohdahun Klein, Anthony Shadap, Sundayrius Khymdeit, and Moon Moon Rabha across various combat divisions.

Sikkim Records Historic First Senior Medal

Sikkim achieved a major milestone as Nichal Rai became the state’s first-ever senior national medalist in Pencak Silat.

Rai won bronze in the Men’s Combat (Tanding) 60–65kg category after impressive victories over opponents from Jharkhand, Gujarat, and the CISF sports board before losing in the semi-final stage against Uttar Pradesh.

Meanwhile, Sikkim athletes Dawki Lepcha, Adrina Rai, and Samiran Sharma gained important tournament ranking points and secured qualification for the 3rd Khelo India Beach Games 2027.

The 14th Senior National Pencak Silat Championship 2026 marked a defining moment for North East India’s growing influence in martial arts, with Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Sikkim delivering landmark performances on the national stage.

Arunachal Pencak Silat Athletes Get Game Ready for Nationals

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NESPORTS Promotes Sports Science Among Arunachal Athletes

Under its flagship sports science initiative “Game Ready – Sharpen Your Mind, Master Your Game,” the NESPORTS Foundation conducted a pre-event workshop at the Sports Authority of Arunachal (SAA) Conference Hall for 19 Pencak Silat athletes from Arunachal Pradesh who are set to participate in the 14th Senior National Pencak Silat Championship, scheduled to be held in Shillong from 6th to 8th July, 2026.

The workshop focused on strengthening athletes beyond physical preparation by highlighting the importance of mental conditioning, nutrition guidance, and injury-prevention strategies—key areas that contribute to peak performance in modern competitive sports.

Speaking on the initiative, NESPORTS Foundation emphasized that physical training alone does not win medals. Through the Game Ready programme, the foundation aims to provide athletes from Northeast India access to sports science support systems that are often available only through elite sporting programmes.

NESPORTS Foundation Game Ready workshop with Arunachal Pencak Silat athletes at Sports Authority of Arunachal Conference Hall ahead of the 14th Senior National Pencak Silat Championship 2026 in Shillong.

During the session, Ms. Bindiya Ligu, Sports Psychologist at NESPORTS Foundation, interacted with the athletes and guided them on various aspects of mental preparation. She helped participants understand the role of mental conditioning in competition, encouraged them to share their experiences, and provided practical techniques and strategies to manage pressure before and during matches.

The workshop also created an interactive platform for athletes to discuss challenges faced during competitions and learn effective approaches to improve focus, confidence, and overall performance.

Through initiatives like Game Ready, NESPORTS Foundation continues its efforts to empower athletes of Northeast India by combining physical training with scientific support, helping them prepare not just to compete but to perform at their best on the national stage.

How Khelo India Helped Sikkim Boxer Soneya Subba Win National Bronze

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Sikkim boxer Soneya Subba displays her bronze medal and certificate at the 5th U-15 National Boxing Championship in Jalandhar, Punjab.

Young boxer Soneya Subba has brought pride to Sikkim after securing a bronze medal at the 5th U-15 Sub-Junior Girls & Boys National Boxing Championship, held at Lovely Professional University (LPU), Jalandhar, Punjab. The achievement marks another encouraging chapter for the Himalayan state’s growing boxing ecosystem and underlines the success of grassroots sports development programmes.

Competing in the 30–33 kg girls’ weight category, Soneya delivered a series of determined performances against some of India’s finest young boxers before finishing on the podium. Winning a national medal at the age-group level is considered an important milestone for any emerging boxer, providing valuable exposure to high-level competition.

Soneya trains at the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE), Reshithang, after beginning her boxing journey at the Khelo India Centre in Soreng. Her steady rise reflects the impact of structured coaching, scientific training and regular competition opportunities provided under the Khelo India programme. Coaches and officials have credited her discipline and consistent improvement for the national success.

The bronze medal also highlights the growing strength of Sikkim’s youth boxing programme. In recent years, the state has invested in nurturing talented athletes through dedicated coaching centres and participation in national championships. Soneya’s achievement is expected to inspire more young athletes, particularly girls, to take up boxing as a competitive sport.

Before travelling to Punjab, Soneya earned her place in the state contingent after being selected by the Sikkim Amateur Boxing Association (SABA). She was among the promising young boxers chosen to represent Sikkim at one of India’s premier age-group boxing championships, which attracts participants from across the country.

Although Soneya is still in the early stages of her career, the latest medal suggests she is an athlete to watch in the coming years. Success at the U-15 level often serves as a stepping stone toward junior, youth and eventually senior national competitions.

For Sikkim, the medal is another positive sign that investments in grassroots sports infrastructure are beginning to deliver results. As more athletes emerge through the Khelo India pathway, the state continues to strengthen its reputation as a developing hub for boxing talent in Northeast India.

As she progresses through the junior ranks, more achievements and competitive appearances are likely to establish her profile on the national boxing circuit.

CM Promotes Indigenous Games and Unity at Major Sporting Events in Imphal

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Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh addressing participants and spectators during the closing ceremony of the Chief Minister Trophy Kang Tournament and MPC Football Tournament in Imphal.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday attended the final match of the 13th Chief Minister Trophy Kang Tournament at the Manipur Kangshang, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, before later gracing the closing ceremony of the 2nd MPC Trophy Football Tournament at Hiyangthang Kangjeibung in Imphal.

Addressing participants and spectators at the Kang tournament, the Chief Minister highlighted the rich heritage of Kang, one of Manipur’s oldest indigenous games. He stated that the game was first introduced during the reign of King Loitongba and underscored the importance of preserving traditional sports as part of the state’s cultural identity.

Recalling the origins of the Chief Minister’s Kang Trophy, Singh noted that the tournament was initiated in 1999 by former Chief Minister Wahengbam Nipamacha Singh. Congratulating the Manipur Kang Association and the players for their sustained efforts in promoting the traditional game, he praised their dedication in ensuring the continued popularity of Kang across generations.

As part of the government’s commitment to encouraging indigenous sports, the Chief Minister announced a contribution of Rs 1 lakh from the Chief Minister’s account, continuing the annual tradition of support for the tournament.

The closing function was attended by Sapam Nishikant Singh, MLA of Keishamthong Assembly Constituency; Dr Mayengbam Veto Singh, Director of Youth Affairs and Sports (YAS); Meikam Jadumani Singh, President of the Manipur Kang Association; members of the association, players, and sports enthusiasts.

In the tournament final, NBKA emerged champions after defeating Gopaldev Kangkhut by 28-14 panjal. W Premjit of NBKA was adjudged Best Lamtha and also received the Man of the Match award, while teammate Kh Ithoi secured the Best Chekphei title.

Later in the day, while addressing the closing ceremony of the 2nd MPC Trophy Football Tournament, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him by local residents. Referring to the slogans calling for unity among the people, he said they reflected the collective aspiration for peace, harmony and togetherness in the state.

Singh observed that sports have long served as a powerful platform for fostering friendship and unity. Drawing parallels with the Olympic Games, he noted that athletes from different nations come together, interact and build lasting bonds. He added that sporting events across India similarly promote integration and mutual understanding among diverse communities.

“Manipur has always embodied this spirit of unity through sports,” the Chief Minister remarked.

Highlighting the state’s sporting achievements, Singh said that the Prime Minister’s decision to establish the National Sports University in Manipur was recognition of the exceptional talent and credibility of Manipuri sportspersons. He further informed the gathering that reports received by the government indicate that all infrastructure works at the university are expected to be completed within the current year.

The football tournament’s closing ceremony was attended by Konthoujam Govindas Singh, Minister for Home and Youth Affairs & Sports; Karam Shyam Singh, MLA of Langthabal Assembly Constituency; Sagolshem Kebi Devi, MLA of Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly Constituency; Naorem Praveen Singh, Secretary, Youth Affairs and Sports; Dr Mayengbam Veto Singh, Director, YAS; former India football team captain P Renedy Singh; former India football player Lourembam Lolendra Singh; officials, club members, players and local residents.

The twin sporting events highlighted the state’s continued commitment to promoting both traditional and modern sports while reinforcing the role of athletics in fostering unity and social cohesion across Manipur.

First Direct Appointment Under Meghalaya Sports Policy

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Pynshngain Kurbah receives appointment letter under Meghalaya Outstanding Sportsperson Direct Appointment Policy at Meghalaya Sports Conclave 2026 in Shillong.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma presents the first appointment letter under Meghalaya's Outstanding Sportsperson Direct Appointment Policy to canoeist Pynshngain Kurbah in Shillong on June 16, 2026.

In a landmark move aimed at rewarding sporting excellence and providing athletes with greater career security, the Meghalaya Government on Monday handed over the first appointment letter under the Meghalaya Outstanding Sportsperson Direct Appointment Policy to canoeist Pynshngain Kurbah during the Meghalaya Sports Conclave 2026 in Shillong.

Kurbah, who won a bronze medal in canoeing for Meghalaya at the 38th National Games, became the first athlete to benefit from the policy approved by the state cabinet in February this year.

The appointment letter was presented by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma in the presence of Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla and other dignitaries, marking what the government described as a significant step in recognising and supporting sporting achievement in the state.

Addressing the gathering, Sangma said the appointment represented a major milestone in the government’s efforts to create a more supportive ecosystem for athletes. He noted that the policy was designed to provide talented sportspersons with employment opportunities, financial stability and motivation to pursue excellence at national and international levels.

The Meghalaya Outstanding Sportsperson Direct Appointment Policy was introduced to reward athletes who bring laurels to the state through direct appointments in government services. Officials said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that outstanding sporting performances receive meaningful recognition beyond medals and trophies.

The presentation of the first appointment letter is expected to pave the way for more athletes to benefit from the scheme in the coming years, particularly as Meghalaya prepares to host the 39th National Games in 2027.

The appointment ceremony formed part of the Meghalaya Sports Conclave 2026, organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs. The conclave brought together athletes, policymakers, sports administrators and experts from across the country to discuss sports governance, digital transformation and athlete development.

The event was attended by several prominent sporting personalities, including Olympic medallists Manu Bhaker and PR Sreejesh, Asian Games gold medallist Hima Das, and Paralympic medallist archers Sheetal Devi and Harvinder Singh.

The first thematic session, titled Transforming India’s Sports Governance, featured discussions on strengthening sports administration and building inclusive systems that support athletes from the grassroots level. Panellists emphasised the importance of giving athletes a greater voice in policy decisions.

A second session on Innovation and Digital Transformation in Sports examined the growing role of technology, data analytics and strategic partnerships in athlete development and performance monitoring. Participants included World Athletics Vice-President Adille Sumariwalla, Go Sports Foundation Board Member Deepthi Bopaiah, Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra and sports commentator Boria Majumdar, the latter two joining virtually.

The final session focused on Holistic Development for a Sustainable Sporting Future, with Chief Secretary Shakil P. Ahammed joining Bhaker, Das, Devi, Singh and Sreejesh in discussions on athlete development pathways, early talent identification and the importance of collaboration between governments, federations and institutions.

The conclave concluded with the screening of Rise Meghalaya, a promotional music video highlighting the state’s sporting ambitions ahead of the National Games.

Assam Athletes Win Five Medals at Indian Athletics Series–11

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Assam athletes and coach Uttam Handique pose after winning five medals at the Indian Athletics Series–11 in Kolkata.

Athletes from Assam delivered a remarkable performance at the Indian Athletics Series–11, held at the NIS Campus, Salt Lake, Kolkata, bringing glory to the state with an impressive haul of five medals at the national-level competition.

The athletes showcased exceptional talent and determination, helping Assam strengthen its reputation in Indian athletics with podium finishes across multiple events. Under the guidance of coach Uttam Handique, Assam’s athletes once again demonstrated their growing dominance on the national stage.

Among the standout performers, Jyotisman Baruah clinched the Gold Medal in the men’s long jump event, while Rimpi Buragohain secured another Gold Medal in the women’s long jump with an outstanding performance. Munmun Chetia added to the state’s success by winning the Silver Medal in the women’s long jump, giving Assam two medalists in the same event. In the men’s category, Hemanga Borgohain earned the Bronze Medal in the long jump, while Koushik Gogoi secured a Bronze Medal in the Under-20 Boys’ 100-metre sprint, completing Assam’s five-medal tally.

The outstanding performances at the Indian Athletics Series–11 reflect the steady rise of athletics in Assam and the dedication of both athletes and coaches in achieving excellence at the national level. The achievement has brought immense pride to the state’s sporting fraternity and further strengthened Assam’s reputation as a growing force in Indian athletics.

Summer Slam 3×3 Championship 2026 Concludes Successfully at NERIST

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The Summer Slam 3×3 Championship 2026 concluded successfully on June 14 at NERIST, capping two days of competitive basketball action organised by Team Badass (Bagang Yapa Basketball Club).

The closing day featured intense knockout rounds, with teams showcasing sharp skills, strong teamwork and determination as they chased the championship title.

The tournament’s successful conclusion reflects Team Badass’s continued commitment to developing basketball in Arunachal Pradesh, bringing the state’s basketball community together through competitive opportunities.

Watch the full highlights below:

Techi Ramda Glory Inaugurates Itanagar City Football Academy

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Techi Ramda Glory has inaugurated the Itanagar City Football Academy, a new football learning platform open to players between the ages of 4 and 22.

Located at Jollang in Itanagar, the academy features a full 11-a-side turf ground, giving young footballers in the capital access to proper training infrastructure.

The academy’s leadership team includes Techi Radhe as Chairman, Rocky Ramching, head coach of the state junior team, as Technical Director, Dhorjee Sherpa as Head of Operations, and Techi Tatra as Coach.

Watch the full video below:

Kirat Esports Launches in Tripura

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L.A. Phaiswkwang announces the launch of Kirat Esports in Tripura, promoting competitive gaming, esports tournaments, and MLBB player recruitment.

L.A. Phaiswkwang, founder of KiratOfficial.com, has officially launched Kirat Esports, an independent esports organization and tournament organizer based in Tripura. The initiative aims to create a professional platform for local gamers and provide opportunities for talented players from the state to compete at higher levels.

Kirat Esports will focus on major esports titles including Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), Free Fire, and eFootball. The organization has set a long-term vision of developing competitive teams capable of participating in upper-tier leagues and representing Tripura on larger regional and national esports stages.

As part of its launch, Kirat Esports has opened recruitment for both male and female MLBB lineups, with selections currently being conducted exclusively for players from Tripura. The organization aims to build strong local rosters and nurture homegrown talent capable of competing in professional online and LAN tournaments.

Beyond team development, Kirat Esports also seeks to strengthen the state’s growing esports ecosystem by organizing tournaments, creating competitive opportunities, and encouraging youth participation in esports. The initiative places particular emphasis on supporting aspiring players from the Tiprasa gaming community and providing them with pathways to higher-level competition.

Speaking about the launch, founder L.A. Phaiswkwang said:

“Kirat Esports was created with the vision of giving talented players from Tripura a platform to grow and compete. We want to build competitive teams, organize quality tournaments, and help local gamers reach bigger stages in the esports industry.”

The launch comes at a time when esports continues to experience rapid growth across India, creating new opportunities for players, content creators, and tournament organizers. By focusing on local talent development and structured competition, Kirat Esports aims to contribute to the emergence of Tripura as a recognized hub for competitive gaming in the Northeast region.

Recruitment for both male and female MLBB players from Tripura is currently underway, with Kirat Esports inviting dedicated and passionate gamers to become part of its journey toward professional esports competition and future tournament success.

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