Sports & Youth Services Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar Hosts Felicitation Programme For Medal Winners

Aizawl : This afternoon, Sports & Youth Services Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar hosted a felicitation programme at his office chamber in MINECO to honour Samuel Zadeng, who won a gold medal in Boxing, and the Mizoram Boys Football team, which secured a bronze medal at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025.

The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 were held in Patna, Bihar from May 4 to May 15. During the felicitation ceremony, the Minister expressed his heartfelt appreciation and said, “Winning a gold medal for Mizoram at the national level is a remarkable achievement and something to be truly proud of. Earning a medal at such a level is no easy feat, and it showcases the growth and talent of our sports community.”

Speaking further, the Minister remarked, “I am especially proud of Samuel for winning the gold medal. Boxing is a sport where competitors from many strong states participate, and given the intense competition, becoming a national champion is a great accomplishment.”

He added, “We are also proud of the football team’s performance. Though we narrowly missed a better finish, the efforts of the players and the coaches deserve recognition and appreciation.”

Samuel Zadeng, son of ZD Lalremsanga, currently serving in Bawngkawn Brigade, competed in the 65-70 kg category and defeated Praveen Yadav of Uttar Pradesh with a 5-0 victory in the final. “Samuel’s height and reach, which are often rare in our state, give him a strong advantage. With his capabilities, I believe he can go beyond the national level and even achieve greater heights at the Asian level,” the Minister noted, encouraging him to continue striving for excellence.

Speaking at the event, Samuel shared, “Though physical conditioning was tough during the preparation phase, I was able to perform well thanks to the constant support from my coaches and team officials. Their strategic guidance and game plans helped me stay focused and give my best.”

The Sports Minister also presented a boxing kit and personal cash reward to Samuel as a token of appreciation. All medal winners will additionally receive financial incentives from the state government on National Sports Day, August 29, during the Incentive Cash Award ceremony.

Officials from the Sports & Youth Services Department, including Secretary Pu V. Lalsangliana, coaches, and team officials of the Khelo India Youth Games Mizoram contingent, also attended the felicitation programme. The Department emphasized the need to support and uplift talented players and coaches for continued success in sports development in Mizoram.

At the 2025 Khelo India Youth Games, Mizoram participated in seven sports disciplines with 34 athletes and 10 officials. Among 36 participating states and union territories, Mizoram ranked 26th overall. Notably, E-Sports was introduced as a demonstration sport this year, with 13 participants representing Mizoram.