Mizoram felicitates historic Asian Games gold medallists
Mizoram felicitated Lalremsiami Hmar and Lalthantluangi, the state’s first-ever Asian Games medallists, following their historic gold medal-winning performance as members of India’s women’s hockey team.
The two players received a warm welcome at Lengpui Airport before being felicitated at a special programme held at R. Dengthuama Indoor Stadium in Mualpui.
The felicitation programme was attended by public representatives, senior government officials, sports associations and members of the sporting community.
Recognising their historic achievement, the Mizoram government announced a cash award of Rs 40 lakh for each player. Of this, Rs 25 lakh will be provided under the Mizoram State Incentive Cash Award Scheme and Rs 15 lakh under the Bana Kaih Scheme. The awards will be formally presented at the upcoming Incentive Cash Award distribution programme.
Lalremsiami and Lalthantluangi created history by becoming the first athletes from Mizoram to win an Asian Games medal, with the state’s maiden medal being a gold. India defeated China 1-0 in the women’s hockey final in Kakamigahara, Japan, to clinch the title.
Addressing the felicitation programme, Chief Minister Lalduhoma said Mizoram had begun its Asian Games medal journey with a gold, describing the achievement as a matter of great pride for the state. He congratulated the two players and also hailed India’s qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.
Sports Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar said India’s women’s hockey triumph after a 44-year gap was a landmark achievement and praised the two players for bringing honour to both Mizoram and the country.
The minister also highlighted the importance of developing a strong grassroots sports system. Under Empowering Mizoram Sports (EMS) and the Bana Kaih Handholding Scheme, the state is expanding grassroots coaching, talent identification and athlete development with a long-term goal of producing world-class athletes for the 2036 Olympic Games.
Training is currently being conducted in eight sporting disciplines, including hockey, for boys and girls aged between 8 and 15. More than 420 young players have received hockey training over the past six months.
During an interaction session, Lalremsiami and Lalthantluangi thanked God for their achievement and spoke about their Asian Games experience. They said the strong chemistry within the Indian team boosted their confidence and helped create a positive mindset ahead of the final.
The two players also expressed hope and confidence about India’s prospects at the 2028 Olympic Games.
The athletes had earlier received a warm reception at Lengpui Airport after returning to Mizoram following India’s Asian Games triumph.
Lok Sabha MP Richard Vanlalhmangaiha, Rajya Sabha MP K. Laltluangkima, ministers, MLAs, senior government officials, NGO representatives and members of various sports associations attended the felicitation programme.
