Nilakanta Sharma Honored by Former CM for Asian Games Gold Medal Victory

Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh celebrated the achievements of Nilakanta Sharma, a key player in India's gold medal-winning hockey team at the 2026 Asian Games. The team secured a historic victory against Malaysia, marking their second consecutive gold medal. This win not only highlights India's prowess in hockey but also sets the stage for their participation in the upcoming 2028 LA Olympics. Biren praised Nilakanta's dedication and discipline, embodying the spirit of Manipur. Discover more about this remarkable achievement and its significance in Indian sports history.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 13, 2026, 12:34 IST

Celebrating a Historic Win

In Imphal, Manipur, former Chief Minister N Biren Singh welcomed Nilakanta Sharma, a midfielder from India's gold medal-winning hockey team at the 2026 Asian Games, to his home. He extended his congratulations for the team's remarkable victory in Aichi-Nagoya.

The Indian men's hockey team triumphed over Malaysia with a score of 5-1 in the final, marking their second consecutive gold medal at the Asian Games. This victory contributed to India's impressive total of 85 medals at the event, which included 21 gold, 27 silver, and 37 bronze. Additionally, India secured a spot in the 2028 LA Olympics.

On social media, Biren praised Nilakanta's "dedication, discipline, and quiet determination," which he believes exemplify the sporting spirit of Manipur, and expressed his hopes for Nilakanta's future successes.

Our proud son of Manipur, Olympian Shanglakpam Nilakanta Sharma, visited me at my residence. I congratulated him on his outstanding contribution to India’s historic Gold Medal triumph in men’s hockey at the 2026 Asian Games. His dedication, discipline & quiet determination embody the sporting spirit of Manipur. I wished him continued success & greater glory in the years ahead. @nilakantasharm2

— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) October 13, 2026

This victory is historic as it marks the first time the Indian men's hockey team has defended its gold medal, achieving consecutive wins in 2022 and 2026. It also signifies India's fifth gold in men's hockey at the Asian Games, following earlier victories in 1966, 1998, 2014, and 2022.

Notably, this edition of the Asian Games saw both the men's and women's hockey teams winning gold, making hockey the third Indian team sport, alongside kabaddi and cricket, to achieve a double-gold finish at the continental level.