IMPHAL, June 2, 2026: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand on Tuesday discussed plans to develop a comprehensive roadmap to position polo as Manipur's Unique Selling Proposition (USP), leveraging the state's historical connection to the sport.
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| Union DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia during discussions on a roadmap to position Manipur as a global hub for polo. (Image: X/JM_Scindia) |
In a statement, Scindia highlighted Manipur's status as the birthplace of modern polo and said the state possesses immense potential to emerge as a global hub for the sport.
"As the birthplace of polo, Manipur holds immense potential to emerge as a global hub for the sport," the Union Minister said after his interaction with the Chief Minister.
The discussions focused on identifying ways to promote polo as a key driver of sports tourism, cultural heritage preservation and economic development in the state. The proposed roadmap aims to strengthen Manipur's identity as the original home of polo while creating new opportunities for local communities and the tourism sector.
Polo, known locally as Sagol Kangjei, originated in Manipur centuries before evolving into the modern international sport. The game remains an integral part of the state's cultural heritage and continues to be played in several parts of Manipur.
Officials believe that branding polo as a flagship attraction could help boost domestic and international tourism, attract sporting events and increase global awareness of Manipur's rich sporting traditions. The initiative could also support local players, horse breeders and tourism-related businesses while creating employment opportunities.
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The discussions come amid broader efforts by the Centre and the Manipur government to identify sectors where the state enjoys unique cultural, historical and geographical advantages that can be leveraged for sustainable economic growth.
By positioning polo as its USP, Manipur hopes to strengthen its reputation as a premier sporting destination while preserving and promoting one of its most cherished cultural legacies.
Both leaders expressed optimism that a coordinated strategy involving infrastructure development, promotion of traditional polo, international partnerships and tourism initiatives could help transform Manipur into a globally recognised polo destination.
