Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on September 23 congratulated India’s star weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu after she won a silver medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 in Japan.
The Chief Minister interacted with Mirabai through a video conference from the Civil Secretariat in Imphal and praised her achievement, describing it as a matter of pride for both Manipur and the nation. He said her hard work, discipline and dedication continue to inspire young sportspersons across the country, especially the youth of Manipur.
Khemchand Singh assured that the state government would continue supporting athletes and strengthen efforts to promote sports in Manipur. He added that Mirabai’s success had contributed to India’s medal tally and once again showcased the sporting excellence of the state on the international stage.
During the interaction, Mirabai thanked the people of Manipur for their continued support and encouragement throughout her journey.
Mirabai created history by winning her first-ever Asian Games medal in the women’s 48 kg weightlifting category. Competing at the Nagoya City Trade and Industry Centre, she lifted 87 kg in the snatch and 111 kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 198 kg, securing the silver medal.
Her achievement marks India’s first medal in the category at the Asian Games in 28 years, after Karnam Malleswari won a medal at the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games.
Youth Affairs and Sports Secretary Naorem Praveen Singh also announced that work on the proposed Mirabai Weightlifting Academy is progressing steadily. Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Art and Culture Minister Kh. Loken Singh and MLA Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh also extended their congratulations to the champion weightlifter.
