Nagaland teams secured medals in Pencak Silat and Sepaktakraw at the Khelo India Beach Games 2026 held in Diu.
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DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Pencak Silat and Sepaktakraw teams delivered commendable performances at the Khelo India Beach Games 2026, held at Ghoghla Beach in Diu from January 5 to the 11th.
The Nagaland Pencak Silat team secured the second runner-up position in the girls' discipline, bagging three medals in combat events, including two gold and one silver.
The medal winners are Kitenlo K Thono (gold), Nyia K Thono (gold) and Hatneinem Khongsai (silver).
The victorious contingent arrived at Dimapur Airport on Sunday, where they were accorded a warm reception by representatives of the Rengma Hoho, church and union bodies, officials of the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association, parents and well-wishers.
A brief felicitation programme was held, led by the youth pastor of Dimapur Rengma Baptist Church, who congratulated the medal winners, coach and the entire contingent for their achievement.
While interacting with media persons, the gold medallists Kitenlo K Thono and Nyia K Thono, who are siblings, expressed gratitude and attributed their success to faith. Kitenlo added that competing on sand was physically demanding and technically challenging, but he remained determined to bring laurels to the state.
Both athletes expressed appreciation to their coach, Deep Kumar.
Head coach Deep Kumar expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, stating that under his leadership, sports in the state have witnessed significant growth. He also thanked the Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose, and the department for their support.
The coach further acknowledged the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for organising the games. The 2026 edition saw the participation of around 1,300 athletes from 31 states and union territories competing across eight sporting disciplines over six days.
Meanwhile, the Nagaland Sepaktakraw team won two bronze medals in the games.
According to an update, the men's team won a bronze medal in the Regu event. The players included Mudotsu Dozo, Khele, Kevisaho Neikha, and Neikuo Sorhie. The women's team won a bronze medal in the Quad event. The players were Sezovelu Dozo, Menenu Tsukru, Jwensinle Kesen, Tiajungla, Akumtila, and Thujono.
The team was led by Puleno Neikha as coach and Hopson Sumi as manager.