India Opens Weightlifting Campaign with Rishikanta Singh's Heroic Silver Medal

Rishikanta Singh Chanambam delivered one of India's most inspiring performances at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, winning a silver medal in the men's 60kg weightlifting event after an extraordinary journey marked by sacrifice, setbacks and unwavering determination.

The 24-year-old lifter from Manipur finished with a total lift of 264kg, successfully lifting 121kg in the snatch to tie with Malaysia's Mohamad Aniq bin Kasdan before producing a brilliant 143kg effort in the clean and jerk to secure India's first weightlifting silver medal at the Glasgow Games.

Rishikanta's achievement is the reward for years of perseverance. As a teenager, he reportedly cycled nearly 40 kilometres every day to attend training sessions and often relied on free meals because of financial difficulties. His career suffered another setback after losing his place at a sports training centre, forcing him to work at construction sites to support himself while refusing to abandon his dream of representing India.

His fortunes changed after joining the Indian Navy, where he found the stability needed to rebuild his career. Under the guidance of coach Vijay Sharma, Rishikanta worked his way back into the national circuit, winning domestic titles before earning his place in India's Commonwealth Games squad.

Following his medal-winning performance, the emotional weightlifter dedicated his silver medal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his coach, thanking them for their support and encouragement throughout his journey.

The medal also marks a historic milestone for Manipur, becoming the state's first Commonwealth Games medal in men's weightlifting. Congratulatory messages poured in from across the country, with Union ministers and Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha praising his resilience and determination.

India's weightlifting campaign continues later on Sunday, with Olympic medalist Mirabai Chanu set to compete in the women's 48kg event, where hopes are high for another podium finish.