Sports Minister Felicitates Mizoram’s Weightlifting Medalists at Khelo India Tribal Games

Aizawl, April 2026: Mizoram’s weightlifting medal winners at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 were felicitated by Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State for Sports & Youth Services, during a special ceremony held at his office chamber in MINECO on Thursday afternoon.

Addressing the athletes, the minister said the occasion was a proud and joyful moment for the state. He emphasised that the true achievement lies in the hard work and dedication that led to winning medals and bringing recognition to Mizoram. He noted that weightlifting, along with wrestling and hockey, is among the key disciplines prioritised under the state’s “Empowering Mizoram Sports” initiative, with weightlifting emerging as the strongest performer.

He encouraged the athletes by stating that winning medals at the Khelo India Tribal Games is just the beginning, and their next target should be the National Games. He added that greater milestones lie ahead, and the focus should remain on continuous improvement and higher-level competitions. He also assured the athletes that they would receive incentive cash awards in recognition of their achievements.

The Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 were held from March 25 to April 3 across Raipur, Jagdalpur, and Surguja in Chhattisgarh. Mizoram fielded a contingent of 69 athletes across five disciplines—football, hockey, weightlifting, wrestling, and athletics.

Looking ahead, the minister said preparations are underway to support athletes with better nutrition and training facilities for future competitions like the National Games. He also highlighted that Mizoram may get an opportunity to host weightlifting events in the future, urging greater focus and investment in the sport.

He called upon local communities, including village councils and youth organisations, to actively support talent identification and development in weightlifting. Stressing the sport’s potential, he said it offers strong prospects for winning medals at national and international levels.

During the felicitation event, the Mizoram weightlifting coach presented a performance report. Lallianthuama and Sports & Youth Services Director H Lalhmingthanga also addressed the gathering.

Mizoram has also won two silver and two bronze medals in other disciplines at the Games and is currently placed seventh overall.

Officials including Commissioner & Secretary V Lalsangliana, along with athletes and coaches, attended the event.

Weightlifting Medalists (Mizoram) – Khelo India Tribal Games 2026:

• Isac Malsawmtluanga (60kg, Men) – Gold
• Silvan Beihrothathlo (71kg, Women) – Gold
• Zosangzuali (86+ kg, Women) – Gold
• David Zohmingmawia (110+ kg, Men) – Gold
• David Lalzawmdika (100+ kg, Men) – Silver
• Lalfakawma (79 kg, Men) – Silver
• Laithanpuia (65 kg, Men) – Silver
• Jacob Vanlaltluanga (79 kg, Men) – Bronze