Uttarakhand CM Honors Women Boxers for International Success
Celebrating Women's Achievements in Boxing
On Tuesday, Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recognized the state's female boxers for their exceptional performances on the global stage. The event took place at the Chief Minister's residence, where Dhami presented honors to Pithoragarh athletes Nikita Chand, Kajal Farswan, and Aarti Dhariyal for their impressive accomplishments. Additionally, their coaches, Brijendra Mal and Lalit Kunwar, were also acknowledged, with best wishes extended for their future endeavors.
Outstanding Performances at the Asian Championships
At the Under-23 Asian Boxing Championships held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from July 3 to 15, 2026, Nikita Chand earned a silver medal in the 60 kg category, while Kajal Farswan achieved a silver in the 65 kg category. Their achievements have brought honor to both Uttarakhand and India on the international front.
Nikita Chand: A Champion's Journey
Nikita Chand, hailing from Badalu village in Pithoragarh, is a three-time gold medallist at the Asian Championships, having triumphed in 2021, 2022, and 2023. She is currently under the guidance of coaches Brijendra Mal and Bhaskar Bhatt.
Kajal Farswan's Path to Success
Kajal Farswan, from Bhadeli village in Munsiyari, began her boxing career at the Women's Residential Sports Hostel in Pithoragarh, mentored by Sunita Mehta Rawat and Captain Devichand. She later trained at the Small Khelo India Centre with coach Nikhil Mahar before being selected for the National Boxing Academy in Rohtak. Currently, she is training at the National Women's Boxing Camp in Patiala. Kajal has previously secured a silver medal at the Under-19 ASBC Asian Championships, a bronze at the Under-23 Asian Boxing Championships, and a silver at the 38th National Games in 2025.
Aarti Dhariyal's Gold Medal Victory
Aarti Dhariyal, another promising boxer from Pithoragarh, clinched the gold medal in the 54 kg category at the Gold Belt Boxing Tournament in Romania, which took place from July 12 to 16, 2026. Residing in Gaudihat, Aarti has previously won bronze medals at the Elite Women's National Boxing Championships in 2024 and 2025. She is also part of the National Women's Boxing Camp in Patiala and trained at the Small Khelo India Centre under coach Nikhil Mahar.
Inspiring Future Generations
The accomplishments of these three women boxers highlight the burgeoning sports culture in Uttarakhand and showcase the potential of the state's daughters. Their success serves as an inspiration for a new generation of athletes aiming for excellence in sports.
Government's Support for Sports Development
During the event, CM Dhami emphasized that the daughters of Uttarakhand have elevated the pride of both the state and the nation through their hard work and determination. He noted that the achievements of Nikita Chand, Kajal Farswan, and Aarti Dhariyal illustrate that women from Uttarakhand can excel in various fields. Dhami stated that the medals won at the international level are a testament to the athletes' dedication, their coaches' guidance, and the support from their families.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to enhancing training facilities, infrastructure, and support for athletes. The government is focused on expanding sports infrastructure and nurturing young talent throughout the state. Uttarakhand's athletes have consistently excelled in national and international competitions, bringing honor to the region.
The government's goal is to ensure that every talented athlete has access to the opportunities and facilities necessary for success on the global stage. He wished the athletes and their coaches success in upcoming competitions and expressed confidence that the daughters of Uttarakhand will continue to reach new heights in the future.