In yet another milestone, Boni Mangkhiya of Arunachal has created a national record by lifting a total of 171 kgs in the National Youth Weightlifting Championship in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on Wednesday. She won the gold medal in the process. Over the years, the weightlifters from the state have repeatedly done Arunachal proud by performing excellently. Yukar Sibi, Kojum Taba, Sambo Lapung, etc, have brought laurels to the state. But unfortunately, many of these weightlifters could not live up to the expectations after initial success. Especially at international events like Olympics, Asian Games, and world championships, they have failed to make any mark.
The achievement of Boni Mangkhiya has rekindled the hope of having an international medal winner. She needs to be properly nurtured and supported. The department of sports should take a lead role in this regard. Athletes like Mangkhiya should not only be financially supported but the government should also cover training and other expenses. Further, she should be provided the opportunity to train in the best academies under the guidance of world-class coaches. It is important that she makes the transition from junior to senior level under the proper guidance of an experienced coach.