The Assam Rifles contingent delivered a spectacular performance at the 9th International Karate Championship held in Kolkata from July 25 to 27, clinching a total of 20 medals, including 15 Gold, 4 Silver, and 1 Bronze. Their commanding presence was felt across both Kumite (sparring) and Kata (form) categories in individual and team events, solidifying their status as a formidable martial arts force on the international stage.
The championship witnessed participation from top-tier athletes representing several countries, making the competition fierce and the victories even more commendable. Assam Rifles karatekas displayed exceptional skill, discipline, and sportsmanship—qualities synonymous with the ethos of India’s oldest paramilitary force.
The 15 gold medals came from a blend of male and female participants in various weight and age categories, with standout performances in both traditional Kata routines and dynamic Kumite bouts. The team events were particularly impressive, where Assam Rifles athletes exhibited flawless coordination and strategy to overpower seasoned opponents.
Speaking after the championship, a senior Assam Rifles officer expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishments:
“This performance reflects the physical excellence, mental fortitude, and dedication of our personnel. Sports and martial arts are integral to Assam Rifles culture, and this win is a testament to the comprehensive training and support our jawans receive.”
The success at Kolkata is seen as a significant milestone in Assam Rifles’ continued push to promote competitive sports among its ranks. The force has a history of producing national-level athletes across various disciplines and this international showing further highlights its sporting prowess.
The championship also served as a platform for cross-cultural interaction and camaraderie, with Assam Rifles athletes engaging in friendly exchanges with martial artists from other countries, strengthening people-to-people ties beyond the arena.
As India continues to rise in the global sporting landscape, the performance by Assam Rifles at the 9th International Karate Championship is a source of national pride and inspiration, particularly for youth in the armed forces and Northeast India, from where many of the team’s athletes hail.
With this achievement, Assam Rifles has not only brought laurels to the force but also reaffirmed its motto—“Friends of the Hill People”—by showcasing unity, discipline, and excellence on an international platform.