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Manipur Hosts 7th Women's International Polo Tournament in Imphal

The 7th Manipur Women's International Polo Tournament has commenced at the historic Mapal Kangjeibung ground in Imphal. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla inaugurated the event, stating polo is an inseparable part of Manipur's cultural heritage as the birthplace of Sagol Kangjei. He stressed that promoting the sport must align with the welfare of the Manipuri Pony and conservation of its grounds. The six-day tournament features teams from South Africa, Zambia, and India, highlighting a commitment to women's empowerment through sports.

Key Points: 7th Manipur Women's International Polo Tournament Begins

  • Event held at historic Mapal Kangjeibung
  • Focus on women's empowerment in sports
  • Teams from South Africa, Zambia, India participating
  • Inseparable from Manipur's cultural identity
  • Follows recent 15th International Polo Tournament
2 min read

7th Manipur Women's International Polo Tournament kicks off in Imphal

Governor inaugurates polo tournament in Imphal, emphasizing cultural heritage, pony welfare, and women's empowerment through sports.

"promotion of polo must go hand in hand with the welfare of the Manipuri Pony - Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla"

Imphal, Jan 28

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Wednesday said that the state is the birthplace of Sagol Kangjei, the original and living form of modern polo, and that the game is an inseparable part of Manipur's cultural heritage and identity.

Formally opening the 7th Manipur Women's International Polo Tournament 2026 at Mapal Kangjeibung, the Imphal Polo Ground, the Governor unfurled the flag of the All Manipur Polo Association (AMPA). He emphasised that the promotion of polo must go hand in hand with the welfare of the Manipuri Pony, protection of grazing grounds, and conservation of historic polo grounds.

Highlighting the significance of the Women's International Polo Tournament, the Governor noted that the event reflects a strong commitment to women's empowerment through sports and sends a powerful message of confidence, leadership and excellence.

The Imphal Polo Ground -- Mapal Kangjeibung -- is regarded as one of the oldest polo grounds in the world.

The opening ceremony was attended by First Lady Jyoti Bhalla, Additional Chief Secretary Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Major General Ravroop Singh, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South), and Konsam Saratchandra Singh, President of the All Manipur Polo Association.

Teams from South Africa, Zambia, India Team A (Indian Polo Association) and India Team B (Manipur) are participating in the six-day tournament.

Notably, as part of the traditional 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival 2025, which began on November 21, the seven-day 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament was held at the same venue -- Mapal Kangjeibung -- from November 22.

An official of the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, which organised the tournament, had said that international and national teams, including players from the US, Colombia, India A (Indian Polo Association), India B (Manipur) and India C (Chhattisgarh), participated in the event.

After a two-year pause due to ethnic violence in the state, the 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament was held with renewed purpose and energy under the Governor's leadership.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see the tournament back after the difficult period. The Governor is right—promoting the sport must include protecting the Manipuri Pony and its habitat. That's the soul of Sagol Kangjei. Hope this brings positive energy to the state.
A
Arjun K
Mapal Kangjeibung is a historic ground. It's a matter of pride that the world's oldest polo ground is in India. International teams participating shows our soft power. Let's hope the media gives this the coverage it deserves, not just cricket all the time.
S
Sarah B
As someone who follows equestrian sports, this is fantastic. A women's international polo tournament in the birthplace of the game is symbolic. The mix of teams from Africa and India is great for the sport's growth. Best of luck to all athletes!
V
Vikram M
While celebrating the sport is good, I hope the welfare of the local communities and the promised conservation efforts are followed through practically. Events are one thing, but sustained development and peace in Manipur is the real goal. The tournament should be a step towards that.
K
Kavya N
So proud! Manipuri culture is so rich and often overlooked. Seeing our women leading in this traditional sport is inspiring. Jai Hind! đŸ‡®đŸ‡³ Hope this encourages tourism and understanding of the beautiful Northeast.

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