Thrilling contest in Raipur sees lifters from Arunachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh dominate podium finishes
Published on: March 28, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Raipur, India
A spectacular display of strength and technique marked the men’s 94kg weightlifting competition at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, held at the Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University Sports Complex in Raipur on Friday. Athletes from across the country competed fiercely, showcasing the growing depth of sporting talent emerging from India’s tribal regions.
Arunachal Pradesh’s Lalu Taku delivered an outstanding performance to secure the gold medal, lifting a total of 250 kilograms. He registered 110 kg in the snatch and 140 kg in the clean and jerk, establishing a clear lead over his competitors and demonstrating remarkable consistency throughout the event.
Andhra Pradesh’s P. Mani Shankar finished in second place with a total lift of 244 kilograms, including 106 kg in the snatch and 138 kg in the clean and jerk, pushing the eventual winner with a strong challenge.
The bronze medal went to Khemraj of Himachal Pradesh, who recorded a combined lift of 232 kilograms, comprising 100 kg in the snatch and 132 kg in the clean and jerk.
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Several other lifters also impressed despite narrowly missing podium finishes. Assam’s Samundra Doimari and Jharkhand’s Harsh Kumar Hembram both lifted 225 kilograms, while Madhya Pradesh’s Kishan Bhuria finished with 218 kilograms.
Host state Chhattisgarh’s Viravi Khusro secured seventh position with a total lift of 160 kilograms, followed by Telangana’s V. Arun, who placed eighth with 113 kilograms.
The competition highlighted the immense sporting potential present in tribal communities across India. Events like the Khelo India Tribal Games continue to provide athletes from remote regions a national platform to showcase their abilities, strengthening India’s future sporting ecosystem and promoting inclusive sports development.
