Manipur CM Celebrates Commonwealth Games Success of Weightlifters Mirabai Chanu and Rishikanta Singh

Manipur's Chief Minister Khemchand Yumnam virtually congratulated weightlifters Mirabai Chanu and Rishikanta Singh for their outstanding performances at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. Mirabai secured a gold medal, while Rishikanta won silver, bringing pride to their state and country. The Chief Minister praised their achievements and emphasized Manipur's legacy in sports. Mirabai expressed gratitude for the support she received, highlighting the importance of community encouragement in their success. This interaction showcases the state's commitment to supporting its athletes as they continue to excel on international platforms.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 28, 2026, 07:27 IST

Celebrating Achievements at the Commonwealth Games

Imphal (Manipur) [India], July 28: On Monday, Chief Minister Khemchand Yumnam of Manipur held a virtual meeting with Commonwealth Games 2026 medalists Saikhom Mirabai Chanu and Chanambam Rishikanta Singh. He congratulated the weightlifters for their outstanding performances at the ongoing Games in Glasgow, which have brought honor to both the state and the nation.

In a post shared on X, the Chief Minister expressed, “I had the honor of connecting through video conference with Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 medalists Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, who secured a gold in the Women’s 48 kg Weightlifting event, and Chanambam Rishikanta Singh, who earned a silver in the Men’s 60 kg Weightlifting event. Their incredible achievements have filled us with pride and reaffirmed Manipur’s status as a sporting powerhouse in India. Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for your future endeavors.”

Had the privilege of interacting via video conference with Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 medalists Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, Gold medalist in the Women’s 48 kg Weightlifting event, and Chanambam Rishikanta Singh, Silver medalist in the Men’s 60 kg Weightlifting event.

Their… pic.twitter.com/AQZL6UJ6k8

— Khemchand Yumnam (@YKhemchandSingh) July 27, 2026

During their video interaction, the athletes expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister, with him congratulating them, saying, “Congratulations to both of you. Mirabai, you have won the gold medal, and Rishikanta, you have secured the silver medal! We take pride in your achievements.”

Mirabai expressed her appreciation for the Chief Minister's support.

The Chief Minister remarked, “You both are a source of pride for our state. We are thrilled that you have brought accolades to Manipur and India. Let’s meet once you return to Manipur.”

In response, Mirabai assured, “Yes, sir. We will keep you informed.”

The Olympic medalist also conveyed her gratitude for the backing she has received from both the state and the nation, stating, “Sir, it is your support that has enabled us to reach this level. Our achievements are a result of the love, encouragement, and appreciation from the people of Manipur and all of India. For athletes like us, it is our responsibility to focus solely on our goals. Without your support, we could not have accomplished this. The credit goes to you and the people of Manipur and India.”

The Chief Minister emphasized Manipur's rich sporting heritage, noting, “Despite India having a population exceeding 1.3 billion, our small state of Manipur, with under 3 million residents, has won the country’s first gold medal at the Games. We take immense pride in that, along with the silver medal. We are delighted and wish you the best for your future endeavors. We are here to support you fully.”

Mirabai and Rishikanta expressed their thanks to the Chief Minister before concluding their interaction.

Mirabai opened India’s gold medal tally at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games by clinching the women’s 48kg title, marking her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold after victories in 2018 and 2022.

She set both Commonwealth and Games records during the competition, successfully lifting 105kg in the clean and jerk to secure her title.

Rishikanta also showcased his talent in the men’s 60kg event, winning silver with a total lift of 264kg (121kg snatch and 143kg clean and jerk). He set a new Commonwealth Games snatch record with a personal best of 121kg, finishing behind Malaysia’s Mohamad Aniq Kasdan, who took gold with a Games-record total of 273kg. Kenya’s Joshua Mboya earned the bronze with a total of 260kg.

The achievements of Mirabai and Rishikanta have laid a strong foundation for India’s weightlifting campaign in Glasgow, where the nation has emerged as a formidable contender in the sport.