Onam Gamno Leads Team India as Captain for Asian Cup Arm Wrestling Championship
Leadership Announcement for Team India
The Pro Panja League has officially named Onam Gamno from Arunachal Pradesh as the captain of Team India for the upcoming Asian Cup Arm Wrestling Championship. Joining her in this leadership role is Shrimant Jha from Chhattisgarh, who has been appointed as vice-captain. Jha, a para-athlete, brings a powerful narrative of strength and inclusivity to the team, as highlighted in a recent announcement from the Pro Panja League.
Significance of the Appointment
This leadership selection comes at a pivotal moment for Arunachal Pradesh, especially following recent events that ignited a sense of patriotism in the state. The incident involving China’s attempt to restrict the passage of Prema Thongdok at Shanghai airport has united the region, with citizens expressing their pride through collective renditions of 'Vande Mataram' and enthusiastic displays of the national flag.
Onam Gamno's Achievements
Onam Gamno, aged 27, hails from Ngopok village in the East Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh. She is an accomplished arm wrestler, boasting a remarkable record that includes a silver and bronze medal at the 2024 Asian Cup in Mumbai, a bronze at the 2025 National Armwrestling Championship, and two gold medals at the 2023 National Armwrestling Championship. Her consistent success serves as an inspiration, particularly for young athletes from the northeastern region of India, showcasing her exceptional skills and leadership both on and off the mat.
Shrimant Jha's Inspirational Journey
Vice-captain Shrimant Jha is a renowned para-arm wrestler who recently secured a silver medal at the Hungary Para Arm Wrestling World Cup. His achievements highlight his remarkable talent and determination, serving as a beacon of inspiration for specially-abled athletes nationwide. His inclusion in the team underscores the commitment to inclusivity and excellence.
Expressions of Pride and Commitment
Onam Gamno expressed her pride in representing India, stating, 'I am proud to represent India on the world stage, and every move I make is for my country. I’m ready to give it my all and bring glory home to the tricolour,' as per the Pro Panja League's announcement.
Support from the Arm Wrestling Community
Preeti Jhangiani, President of the People’s Arm Wrestling Federation of India (PAFI) and Vice President of the Asian Armwrestling Federation (AAF), expressed her honor in having Onam Gamno and Shrimant Jha lead Team India. She remarked, 'Their appointments reflect the strength, skill, and spirit that define our league and Indian arm wrestling as a whole. Onam’s leadership and Shrimant’s inspiring journey as a para-athlete perfectly embody the values of determination and unity that we champion. We are confident they will lead the team with passion and bring great pride to the nation.'
Promoting Inclusivity in Arm Wrestling
These appointments not only emphasize Team India’s competitive aspirations but also highlight the growing inclusivity of arm wrestling as a sport. With leaders representing both the vibrant northeastern region and the specially-abled community, the Pro Panja League is committed to fostering diversity, opportunity, and excellence in Indian and Asian arm wrestling.