Itanagar, April 13: Arunachal Pradesh athletes delivered an outstanding performance at the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, securing an impressive fifth position among 30 participating states and Union Territories and emerging as the best-performing state from the Northeast.
The state's contingent showcased remarkable talent and determination throughout the competition, winning a total of 11 medals, including six gold, one silver, and four bronze medals. The achievement marks a significant milestone for Arunachal Pradesh's sporting community and highlights the growing strength of tribal athletes from the region on the national stage.
To honour the athletes' accomplishments, Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the flag-in and felicitation ceremony organized for the state contingent following their successful campaign at the historic sporting event held in Chhattisgarh.
Addressing the gathering, Khandu congratulated the athletes, coaches, support staff, and officials for their exceptional performance and for bringing laurels to the state. He praised their dedication, discipline, perseverance, and competitive spirit, describing their success as a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh.
"The achievements of our athletes reflect their hard work and determination. They have represented Arunachal Pradesh with distinction and have made the entire state proud," the Chief Minister said.
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Khandu noted that securing a top-five finish among 30 states and Union Territories demonstrates the immense sporting potential that exists within Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized that the state government remains committed to supporting athletes through improved infrastructure, training facilities, and opportunities to compete at national and international levels.
The Khelo India Tribal Games, launched to promote sports among tribal youth across the country, provided a unique platform for athletes to showcase their skills and compete against some of the best talent from tribal communities nationwide.
Officials said Arunachal Pradesh's strong performance not only reflects the state's growing sporting culture but also reinforces the Northeast's reputation as a hub of athletic excellence. The success of the contingent is expected to inspire more young athletes to pursue sports and strive for excellence in future national competitions.
