Mandi (Kameshwar Sharma): Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Sikander Kumar received a grand welcome in Sundernagar after becoming the Grappling Federation of India Chairman. The Amateur Grappling Association Himachal Pradesh organized the event at Hotel Roop Naulakha. Sports lovers, athletes, coaches, and officials attended the ceremony in large numbers.
The atmosphere remained festive throughout the event. Traditional drum beats added excitement to the celebrations. Moreover, local MLA Rakesh Jamwal joined the gathering and congratulated Dr. Sikander Kumar on his new responsibility.
International Medal Winners Honoured
The event mainly celebrated athletes who recently achieved success at the international level. These players represented India at the UWW Asia Oceania Grappling Championship 2026 in Da Nang, Vietnam.
Dr. Sikander Kumar and MLA Rakesh Jamwal honoured the athletes with traditional Himachali caps, mufflers, and mementoes. As a result, the players received recognition for their outstanding achievements.
Among the medal winners, Kavita Chauhan delivered an excellent performance. She won a silver medal in the 90 kg category and brought pride to Himachal Pradesh.
Similarly, Mayank Pal secured a bronze medal after displaying remarkable skill and determination. Meanwhile, Mandeep represented India on the international stage and earned appreciation for his strong performance.
These achievements highlighted the growing strength of Indian grappling. Furthermore, they inspired young athletes to pursue excellence in sports.
National Champions Also Receive Recognition
The organizers also honoured players who excelled at the 19th National Grappling Championship 2026 in Guwahati, Assam.
These athletes helped Himachal Pradesh achieve success at the national level. Therefore, the association recognized their efforts during the ceremony.
The dignitaries congratulated the players and encouraged them to continue their sporting journey. In addition, they wished them success in future competitions.
Sikander Kumar Shares Vision for Indian Grappling
While addressing the gathering, Dr. Sikander Kumar praised the talent of Himachal Pradesh’s youth. He said that the state has no shortage of skilled athletes.
According to him, many players from rural areas continue to win medals despite limited resources. Therefore, their achievements deserve special recognition.
The newly appointed Grappling Federation of India Chairman said he wants to improve opportunities for athletes across the country. He also promised to strengthen training facilities and sports infrastructure.
Moreover, he emphasized the need for world-class coaching and better support systems. He believes these steps will help Indian athletes perform at higher levels.
Additionally, he said the federation will focus on identifying young talent from every region. As a result, more athletes will get opportunities to represent India internationally.
MLA Rakesh Jamwal Encourages Youth
MLA Rakesh Jamwal also addressed the gathering. He praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work.
He said sports play an important role in shaping society. Furthermore, sports help young people stay away from drugs and other harmful activities.
According to Jamwal, athletes contribute to nation-building through discipline and commitment. He also appreciated the efforts of the Amateur Grappling Association Himachal Pradesh.
The association has consistently promoted grappling at the grassroots level. Consequently, more young athletes now participate in the sport.
Large Gathering Marks Memorable Event
Several senior officials, coaches, sports administrators, and parents attended the ceremony. Their presence reflected strong support for grappling in Himachal Pradesh.
The event celebrated athletic excellence and sporting achievement. At the same time, it marked a new chapter for Indian grappling under the leadership of the Grappling Federation of India Chairman.
With improved facilities and stronger support, the future looks promising. Therefore, athletes and sports enthusiasts expect Indian grappling to reach new heights in the coming years.
The grand welcome for Dr. Sikander Kumar also reflected growing confidence in his leadership. As a result, many stakeholders believe the sport can achieve greater success at both national and international levels.d focus on athlete development and infrastructure, the future of grappling in India appears promising.
As the federation enters a new phase under his leadership, athletes and sports enthusiasts alike are hopeful that Indian grappling will continue to achieve greater heights on the national and international stage.
Key Points of the Grappling Federation of India Chairman:
- Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Sikander Kumar received a grand welcome in Sundernagar after becoming the National Chairman of the Grappling Federation of India.
- The event was organized by the Amateur Grappling Association Himachal Pradesh at Hotel Roop Naulakha.
- International medal-winning grapplers from Himachal Pradesh were honoured for their achievements at the UWW Asia Oceania Grappling Championship 2026 in Vietnam.
- National medal winners from the 19th National Grappling Championship 2026 in Guwahati were also felicitated.
- Dr. Sikander Kumar pledged to provide world-class facilities, training, and opportunities to grappling athletes across India.
