Khelo India Tribal Games 2026: Arunachal’s Lalu Taku Wins Gold in Men’s 94 kg Weightlifting

Raipur, March 2026 : The senior men’s 94 kg weightlifting competition at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, held at the Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University Sports Ground in Raipur, showcased impressive performances and thrilling contests among athletes from across the country.

The event, conducted on March 28, witnessed talented weightlifters demonstrating exceptional strength and technique in a highly competitive field.

Arunachal Pradesh’s Lalu Taku emerged as the champion, securing the gold medal with a total lift of 250 kg. He dominated the competition by lifting 110 kg in the snatch and 140 kg in the clean and jerk, establishing a clear lead over his rivals.

Andhra Pradesh’s P. Mani Shankar delivered a strong performance to finish second, winning the silver medal with a total lift of 244 kg. His effort included 106 kg in the snatch and 138 kg in the clean and jerk, putting up a tough fight for the top spot.

Himachal Pradesh’s Khemraj secured the bronze medal with a total lift of 232 kg, comprising 100 kg in the snatch and 132 kg in the clean and jerk.

Other notable performances included Assam’s Samundra Doimari and Jharkhand’s Harsh Kumar Hembram, both lifting 225 kg, and Madhya Pradesh’s Kishan Bhuria with 218 kg. Despite their commendable efforts, they narrowly missed out on podium finishes.

Chhattisgarh’s Viravi Khusro finished seventh with a total of 160 kg, while Telangana’s V. Arun secured the eighth position with 113 kg.

The competition not only highlighted the immense talent of athletes from tribal regions but also demonstrated the depth of sporting potential present in remote parts of the country. Events like the Khelo India Tribal Games provide a vital platform for these athletes to gain recognition at the national level.

Such initiatives are playing a crucial role in nurturing grassroots talent and building a strong foundation for the future of Indian sports, enabling athletes from diverse backgrounds to shine on bigger stages.