Itanagar, August 29, 2025: In a major boost to sports development and youth empowerment, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu felicitated 411 athletes, including several para-athletes, for their outstanding achievements at state, national and international competitions. During a grand ceremony held in Itanagar, the Chief Minister distributed cash incentives worth ₹2.49 crore to the sportspersons, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to nurturing athletic talent and promoting excellence in sports.
The event celebrated the achievements of athletes who have brought recognition and pride to Arunachal Pradesh through their performances across various sporting disciplines. The beneficiaries included medal winners and participants who have excelled at different levels of competition, showcasing the growing sporting culture in the state.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Khandu emphasized that sports play a crucial role in shaping disciplined, confident and healthy youth. He lauded the athletes for their dedication, perseverance and hard work, stating that their success serves as an inspiration for the younger generation. He also highlighted the achievements of para-athletes, acknowledging their determination and resilience in overcoming challenges to excel in their respective fields.
The Chief Minister noted that the state government has consistently supported athletes through financial assistance and recognition programmes. Over the years, Arunachal Pradesh has distributed a total of ₹7.1 crore in incentives to 940 sportspersons, reflecting its sustained investment in sports development and athlete welfare.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Chief Minister’s Athlete Coaching & Empowerment Scheme, a revamped version of the earlier Meritorious Sportsperson Scholarship. The new initiative aims to go beyond monetary rewards by providing comprehensive support, including professional coaching, advanced training opportunities, mentorship and other resources needed to help athletes achieve their full potential.
ALSO READ: Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu Meets JK Tyre CMD to Discuss Motorsports and Rubber Plantation
The scheme is designed to identify promising talent at an early stage and provide them with structured guidance to compete at higher levels. Officials said the programme would play a significant role in producing future champions capable of representing Arunachal Pradesh and India on national and international platforms.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Member of Parliament Tapir Gao, Speaker Tesam Pongte, Ministers Pasang D. Sona and Kento Jini, Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor, Advisor Zingnu Namchoom and other dignitaries. The leaders praised the growing achievements of Arunachal’s athletes and reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and opportunities across the state.
The event marked another milestone in Arunachal Pradesh’s sporting journey, highlighting the government’s vision of empowering youth through sports and building a vibrant ecosystem for athletic excellence.
