On Thursday, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the second edition of the Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship, held on the Tawangchu River in the Himalayas. This high-altitude event attracted over 100 athletes from both India and abroad, underscoring the state’s increasing prominence in adventure sports. Khandu expressed pride in welcoming the participants, acknowledging the significant contributions of various organizations including the Arunachal Olympic Association, Arunachal Kayaking & Canoeing Association, and others involved in making the event successful.
A notable acknowledgment during the event was given to Bilquis Mir, India’s first female Olympic jury member in kayaking and canoeing, whose participation serves as an inspiration for young athletes. In his remarks, Khandu congratulated all participants and emphasized the championship’s potential to foster a new generation of champions.
The Chief Minister also highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s natural rivers, which are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, and mentioned the proposal by the AKCA to develop five river basins as training hubs, with a memorandum already submitted. He assured that the state government, in partnership with technical experts and the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association, would establish additional training centers to advance the sport in the region.
Khandu reflected on the past, noting that Arunachal Pradesh previously ranked low in national sports performance. However, according to the 38th National Games rankings, the state now stands second in the Northeast, following Manipur. He expressed confidence in further gains in the upcoming 39th National Games, attributing these advancements to robust national leadership and ongoing investments in youth development, sports policy, and infrastructure.
