307/2024-2025 

Aizawl, 5th November 2024: This morning at 10:00 AM, Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State, Sports & Youth Services Department etc. held a felicitation event at his MINECO office to honor the Mizo athletes who won medals at the Asian Arm-Wrestling International Cup held in October. The felicitation programme was attended by the medalists, along with officials from the Sports & Youth Services Department, the People's Armwrestling Federation of India, and the Mizoram Arm Wrestling Association. 

At the Asian Arm-Wrestling International Cup, held in Mumbai from October 19 to 26, Denic Lalruattluanga from Mizoram won the gold medal in the Senior Men’s 80 kg category. Additionally, Benjamin Lalawmpuia claimed a silver medal in the Senior Men’s 100 kg category, while Vanramnghaki secured two silver medals in the Women's 80 kg category for both right-hand and left-hand events, as well as a bronze medal in the Para Women's category. Speaking at the event, the Minister expressed his pride, stating, “I am truly delighted by the way we celebrate the achievements of our young athletes today, as well as the recognition they receive through social media and other platforms.” 

During the event, the Minister announced a revision of the Sports Incentive Cash Award scheme to cover both Olympic and non-Olympic sports disciplines. “Since Olympic sports disciplines themselves change every four years, there is no ‘permanent’ Olympic discipline. After careful consideration, we have decided to extend our incentive scheme to all the 33 associations under the Mizoram State Sports Council" he explained. Under the revised program, athletes in Olympic sports disciplines will receive full government incentives, while non-Olympic athletes will receive 50% of the Olympic incentive amount. 

The Sports Minister also emphasized that all possible avenues of support for athletes are being pursued. "We have been in close contact with MAWA officials and the athletes from the start. While the public naturally expects immediate celebrations and awards, government processes must follow established rules and regulations," he explained. "We are committed to exploring every possible avenue to support these athletes, including potential regularized government positions based on their achievements. Research and exploration of these processes are already underway." 

Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar announced that Mizoram plans to host an international arm-wrestling event before the end of the year. This December, the state will welcome the Pro Panja Mega Match Mizoram, attracting top arm wrestlers from around the world to compete alongside Mizo athletes. Gold medalist Denic Lalruattluanga will headline the event, taking on a world-class opponent to be invited by Pro Panja. 

The event was attended by Parvin Dabas, founder of the popular Pro Panja League (PPL), and PAFI President Preeti Jhangiani. Dabas expressed his appreciation, stating, “It’s inspiring to see the tremendous support for athletes like Denic and his teammates, and how they have become overnight celebrities. Arm wrestling is a non-violent combat sport that builds physical strength, and the Pro Panja League, now among India’s fastest-growing leagues, has reached 32 million viewers in its first season. The enthusiasm from top arm wrestlers and officials worldwide has motivated us, and the league’s success has even caught our partners at Sony off guard.” He also commended the Mizoram government for supporting the People’s Armwrestling Federation of India and exploring further avenues for collaboration. 

During the program, Philip Lalbiakchama, General Secretary of the Mizoram Arm Wrestling Association, delivered a report, and the medalists shared their experiences and expressed gratitude.