Sri Vijaya Puram: Director General of Police (DGP), Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ravindra Singh Yadav, an IPS officer of 1995 batch, felicitated the Union Territory’s medal-winning Pencak Silat team following their impressive performance at the 14th National Pencak Silat Championship 2026. The ceremony recognised 19 young athletes who collectively secured 19 medals at the national championship held in Nashik, Maharashtra.
Congratulating the athletes for bringing laurels to the islands, the DGP highlighted the importance of introducing martial arts training from an early age to promote physical fitness, discipline, self-defence and mental well-being among children.
Young Athletes Bring Home 19 National Medals
The Andaman and Nicobar contingent participated in the 14th National Pencak Silat Championship 2026, held at Tapovan, Nashik, Maharashtra, from June 25 to 28.
Competing against participants from across the country, the island team delivered an outstanding performance in multiple age categories, including:
- Singa
- Macan
- Pre-Teen
- Sub-Junior
- Junior
The athletes, aged between 5 and 16 years, returned with an impressive tally of 19 medals, comprising:
- 3 Gold Medals
- 4 Silver Medals
- 12 Bronze Medals
The championship was organised under the aegis of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation, which is recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).
DGP Felicitates Players and Coaches
During the felicitation ceremony, DGP Ravindra Singh Yadav honoured the medal-winning athletes and interacted with the team members.
The delegation also included:
- M. Logarjun – National Coach-cum-Player
- M. Manikandan
- M.S. Murugan, former Sub-Inspector of Andaman & Nicobar Police (IRBn) and President of the Pencak Silat Association of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The DGP congratulated both the athletes and coaching staff for their dedication and sustained efforts in promoting the martial art in the Union Territory.
Martial Arts Important for Physical and Mental Development
Addressing the young athletes, Ravindra Singh Yadav stressed that martial arts training from a young age contributes significantly to a child’s overall development.
He noted that regular participation in martial arts helps develop:
- Physical fitness
- Mental clarity
- Self-confidence
- Discipline
- Self-defence skills
According to the DGP, these qualities are essential for nurturing responsible and healthy citizens in an era increasingly dominated by sedentary lifestyles and digital distractions.
Call for Greater Youth Participation in Sports
The DGP encouraged the younger generation to actively participate in sports and physical activities to combat lifestyle-related health challenges.
He said disciplined sporting activities not only improve physical health but also instil qualities such as perseverance, teamwork and resilience, which are valuable throughout life.
He urged the young athletes to continue striving for excellence and represent the islands at national and international competitions.
Support for Future Sporting Excellence
Ravindra Singh Yadav assured continued encouragement and institutional support for the development of Pencak Silat and other sports in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
He expressed confidence that the islands have the potential to emerge as an important sporting hub by nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for competitive training.
The DGP also commended the consistent achievements of the Pencak Silat team, noting that their success serves as an inspiration for other young athletes across the Union Territory.
A Proud Moment for the Islands
The team’s remarkable medal haul reflects the growing popularity of martial arts in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the dedication of its athletes, coaches and sports administrators.
Their performance at the national championship has added another chapter to the Union Territory’s sporting achievements while reinforcing the importance of grassroots sports development and early talent identification.
Read also: Who Is IPS Avinash Pandey? Meerut SSP at Centre of Viral Slapping Row and Political Storm
