1. Assam Rifles debuts women’s polo team at Manipur’s Imphal Polo Ground on May 6.
2. Esteemed dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and gender equality advocates will attend the event.
3. The team’s debut marks a significant milestone in Manipuri Polo history at the world’s oldest polo ground.
Guwahati, May 05: The Assam Rifles is poised to introduce its women’s polo team on Monday (May 6) at Manipur’s Imphal Polo Ground, also known as Mapal Kangjeibung, the world’s oldest polo ground.
This significant event will gather esteemed dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and advocates for gender equality as the team debuts in Manipuri Polo. The team consists of six highly skilled Manipuri women soldiers, meticulously selected in 2023 as part of Assam Rifles’ sports recruitment drive.
Over the past year, these exceptional women have trained rigorously as soldiers and polished their polo skills. This groundbreaking initiative underscores Assam Rifles’ commitment to promoting local sports and empowering women.
Since 2016, Assam Rifles has been recruiting women soldiers for national service. In 2022, the force took a significant step by recruiting women excelling in sports, providing them with new opportunities.
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Assam Rifles has long championed sports to foster sportsmanship, camaraderie, and unity among its ranks. Until now, the force, known as the ‘Sentinels of the Northeast,’ had only a men’s polo team, which has gained acclaim in Manipuri Polo.
Anticipation mounts for the launch of the women’s polo team. Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, Inspector General Assam Rifles-South (IGAR-South), highlighted that the event transcends sports.
“By empowering women, promoting regional harmony, and preserving Manipur’s rich polo heritage, Assam Rifles is creating a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations,” Maj Gen Singh stated.
“This historic event will revitalize the tradition of Manipuri Polo, which has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent ethnic conflicts in the state,” he added.
Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey will grace the occasion as the chief guest, adding to the significance of the event.
