HT Correspondent
ITANAGAR, Nov 28: Lohit emerged as the champion and Subansiri finished runner-up in the first-ever Asmita Khelo India Women’s Shooting Ball League 2025–26, marking a major step forward for women’s sports promotion in Arunachal Pradesh.
The league was organised by the Shooting Ball Association of Arunachal Pradesh (SBAAP) under the Asmita Khelo India initiative and concluded on Thursday.
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The inaugural edition brought together six district teams — Siang, Lohit, Subansiri, Tawang, Kameng and Papum Pare — in what officials described as a breakthrough platform for women athletes in a discipline steadily gaining popularity.
Lingdum Anju from the Lohit team was adjudged the Best Player of the League for her standout performance.
At the closing ceremony, All Arunachal Contractor’s Welfare Association president Nabam Akin Hina attended as chief guest, while IMC Ward No 18 official candidate Gigi Rina Camdir graced the event as guest of honour.
Both encouraged the participating teams to continue nurturing their sporting aspirations and to inspire others to join competitive sports.
Earlier, at the inaugural session, Director of Sports Tadar Apa urged athletes to remain disciplined and committed in order to achieve excellence.
He said that while the state has abundant talent, proper guidance and channelled effort are essential for helping young players excel at higher levels.
Citing success stories of sportspersons from Arunachal at state and national events, Apa advised athletes to balance academics and sports, maintain physical and mental well-being, and strive to make the most of opportunities such as the sports quota in government jobs.
Arunachal Olympic Association general secretary Bamang Tago encouraged participants to use the league as a stage to showcase their potential and gain competitive exposure.
“Do not participate just for certificates. Participate to gain experience,” he said, adding that events like this will play a significant role in changing perceptions about women in sports and building their confidence.
Certificates were also presented to athletes who recently represented Arunachal Pradesh at the national-level Shooting Ball League.
SBAAP president Tako Taluk said the introduction of the league in the state aligns with the national vision to enhance women’s participation in sports.
He emphasised that Arunachal has many promising female athletes who only need proper platforms to display their abilities. Officials said the success of the league is expected to boost interest in shooting ball and widen opportunities for women across the state.
