Three Boxers from JNV Chukitong Shine at NVS National Championship

Kohima, India Aug 24, 2026 ALN: Three young boxers from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Chukitong, Wokha, have made their mark by winning one silver and two bronze medals at the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti National Boxing Championship. The event took place at JNV Vadnagar in the Mehsana district of Gujarat from August 18 to 21. This championship serves as a significant platform for young athletes across India, showcasing their skills and dedication to the sport.

Boxing, a sport that requires a combination of physical strength, agility, and mental toughness, has gained popularity in recent years, especially among the youth in India. The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) National Boxing Championship is an annual event that aims to promote sports among students in the Navodaya Vidyalayas, which are a system of schools established by the Government of India to provide quality education to talented children from rural areas. This initiative aligns with the broader push for sports development in the country, encouraging young talent to pursue athletic excellence.

Competing in the Under-14 Boys category, Rhanben S. Lotha secured a silver medal in the 42–44 kg category. His journey to the finals was marked by impressive performances, as he defeated Shayed from the Pune Region in the quarter-finals and Chatrapal from the Bhubaneswar Region in the semi-finals. Ultimately, he finished as the runner-up to Anshuman from the Lucknow Region, demonstrating not only skill but also resilience in the face of tough competition. Meanwhile, Benathung M. Tsopoe and Emmanuel Y. Ezung earned bronze medals in the 44–46 kg and 32–34 kg categories, respectively, showcasing the depth of talent from JNV Chukitong.

Benathung's path to the semi-finals included victories over Akshay from the Hyderabad Region and Amritraj from the Patna Region, illustrating his competitive spirit and determination. However, he faced a challenging match against Ankur from the Lucknow Region, which ultimately ended his run in the championship. Emmanuel, on the other hand, defeated Luv Kush from the Bhopal Region in the quarter-finals but was eliminated by Hemchandra from the Hyderabad Region in the semi-finals. These matches highlight the rigorous nature of the championship, where young boxers are pitted against some of the best talents from across the nation.

This championship marked the first national-level outing for all three boxers, following their gold-medal performances at the Regional Boxing Meet held in Barpeta, Assam, in April 2026. Their success at the regional level likely provided them with valuable experience and confidence, which they carried into the national competition. Such experiences are crucial for young athletes, as they not only hone their skills but also teach them how to compete under pressure and manage the expectations that come with representing their schools and regions.

Eight boxers from JNV Chukitong were part of the 49 athletes representing the Shillong Region. The other six participants included Sujamo M. Tsanglao, Limhathung Yanthan, Erenthung Tungoe, Rhonjanthung M. Jami, and Zaremo Odyuo. The Shillong Region concluded the championship with eight gold, ten silver, and nine bronze medals, with three of the eight JNV Chukitong representatives returning home with medals. This collective success underscores the strength of the Shillong Region in boxing and highlights the effectiveness of the training programs in place at the Navodaya Vidyalayas.

The team was trained and accompanied by Physical Education Teacher Bikash Jyoti Bora, whose role was pivotal in preparing the students for this high-stakes competition. His guidance and expertise in boxing not only helped the athletes refine their techniques but also instilled a sense of discipline and sportsmanship in them. JNV Chukitong Principal Dr. Bijay Kumar Gupta congratulated the medal winners and praised Bora’s efforts in preparing the students, expressing optimism for greater achievements in future competitions. This encouragement from school officials is vital in motivating young athletes to continue their pursuit of excellence in sports.

The performance of these young boxers is a testament to the potential of athletes from rural backgrounds when given the right opportunities and support. It also reflects the growing recognition of boxing as a viable career path for young sports enthusiasts in India. With the increasing emphasis on sports in education, there is hope that more young talents will emerge from such institutions, contributing to the national sports landscape.

In the broader context, the success of these boxers can inspire other students in the region to take up sports seriously, fostering a culture of athleticism and healthy competition. As India continues to make strides in various sports on the international stage, grassroots initiatives like the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti National Boxing Championship play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing the next generation of athletes.