A solo competition during the recent ASMITA Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League 2025 (NE Zone), held in Dimapur. (Image Courtesy: NPSA)
DIMAPUR, MARCH 26 (MExN): Nagaland secured the runners-up position in the ASMITA Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League 2025 (North East Zone), claiming 10 gold, 8 silver, and 16 bronze medals.
The two-day event, held on March 17 and 18 at DBC Indoor Stadium Dimapur, saw the participation of 280 girls athletes from across the NE states.
The competition was officiated by national and international referees and juries from the Indian Pencak Silat Federation and the North Eastern states, ensuring high standards of judging, informd a press release from the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association (NPSA)
Assam topped the medal tally with 22 gold, 19 silver, and 25 bronze medals, followed by Nagaland in second place with a total of 34 medals.
Manipur secured third place with 8 gold, 6 silver, and 6 bronze medals.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Nagaland’s Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, MLA S Keoshu Yimkhiung, commended the state’s athletes for their consistent performances in regional and national championships.
“This achievement marks another milestone in our sporting history, showcasing the dedication and potential of our athletes. The government remains committed to providing training and support to help Nagaland emerge as a dominant force in martial arts,” he stated.
Alexander Thomas, Vice-President of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation and Daman and Diu Olympic Association was the Special Guest at the opening while Kuputo Shohe, Joint Secretary of the Nagaland Olympic Association also graced the occasion.
The closing ceremony was officiated by the Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Nagaland, Kethosituo Sekhose, who awarded medals and cheques to the winners.
He emphasised that Nagaland has consistently produced exceptional Pencak Silat athletes.
“The medalists here today will be our state’s pride as they move forward to compete at the national level,” he added.
As per the NPSA, the event served as a qualifying platform for athletes competing in the senior girls’ category, with the medal winners set to represent their respective states at the ASMITA Khelo India National Pencak Silat Women’s League in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, from April 6 to 8.
ASMITA Khelo India is an initiative under the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and is sponsored by the Sports Authority of India (SAI). It aims to promote women’s participation in sports and provide emerging talent with opportunities to excel at the national and international levels.
