India B (Manipur) Triumphs as 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament Concludes in Imphal

Imphal, Nov 2025 : The seven-day 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament concluded on Saturday with a grand closing ceremony, where India B (Manipur) emerged champions after defeating Colombia 8–5. The event, held at the historic Imphal Polo Ground (Mapal Kangjeibung), formed a key highlight of the 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival 2025, which commenced on November 21.

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, accompanied by the First Lady, graced the closing ceremony and witnessed the thrilling final match. The Governor initiated the game with the ceremonial throw-in, setting the stage for an intense contest that drew enthusiastic spectators. India B (Manipur) displayed exceptional skill and teamwork to secure a commendable 8–5 victory over Colombia, marking a proud moment for the state’s polo community.

During the ceremony, the Governor released the official souvenir of the 15th Manipur Polo International 2025, celebrating the rich legacy of the sport in Manipur. The tournament once again showcased the state’s long-standing equestrian heritage, reaffirming its honoured status as the birthplace of modern polo. The participation of teams from across the globe added prestige to the competition and underscored Manipur’s growing prominence in the international polo circuit.

The Governor and the First Lady later distributed prizes to all winning teams and participants, lauding their sportsmanship, dedication, and spirit of competition. Governor Bhalla formally declared the tournament closed, expressing optimism for future editions that will further elevate the sport in the region.

This year’s tournament marked a significant revival, returning after a two-year hiatus caused by ethnic violence in Manipur. Its successful conduct reflects renewed commitment and coordinated efforts under the Governor’s leadership, contributing to the restoration of cultural and sporting activities in the state.

The event was attended by the President of the Manipur Pony Society, senior officials, dignitaries, and members of the public, who turned out in large numbers to support the teams. An official from the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association—the organising body—shared that the tournament saw participation from international and national teams, including players from the US, Colombia, India A (Indian Polo Association), India B (Manipur), and India C (Chhattisgarh).

Earlier, Manipur Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel outlined the government’s plans to promote polo by enhancing infrastructure, engaging international coaches, and hosting more global tournaments. These initiatives, undertaken in collaboration with the Tourism Department, the Department of Information and Public Relations, and the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), aim to strengthen Manipur’s stature in global polo.

The historic Imphal Polo Ground—Mapal Kangjeibung—one of the world’s oldest polo grounds, once again provided a magnificent setting for this prestigious international sporting event.