Port Blair, July 25: The Andaman & Nicobar Islands boxing team made the Union Territory proud by securing 3rd place at the Senior National Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championship 2025–26, held at Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh from 18th to 22nd July. The championship was organized by the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) and saw participation from top boxers across the country.
Despite limited resources, the Andaman team delivered an inspiring performance with the following achievements:
A. Srijesh (Student, JNRM College) – Gold Medal in the 50 kg category and a cash prize of Rs 21,000/-.
Saw Adison (Unemployed) – Silver Medal in the 55 kg category and a cash prize of Rs 5,100/-.
Abdul Shaan (Student) – Bronze Medal in the 116 kg category. He gave a remarkable fight against WBC Asian Champion Harsh Gill.
SI/PMT Dishant Prasad (A&N Police) – Bronze Medal in the 90 kg category.
M. Abdul Naseef (Electricity Department) – Competed in the 70 kg category and reached the quarterfinals.
This remarkable feat marks a significant milestone for the Islands, especially considering the grassroots efforts behind the team’s preparation. The credit for this transformation goes largely to Shri Bikram Pariyar, a professional boxer and former army commando from Sikkim, now settled in Mayabunder, A&N Islands. Despite the absence of formal infrastructure, Pariyar began training young aspirants in a small room with minimal facilities. Over the past three years, his relentless efforts have enabled Island youth to participate and win in several boxing tournaments across India and even internationally.
Speaking to our correspondent, Shri Bikram Pariyar expressed strong confidence in the untapped potential of youth in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, especially in the field of boxing. He emphasized that with proper support from the A&N Administration, the Islands could soon emerge as a powerhouse in Indian boxing. Shri Pariyar also extended heartfelt gratitude to Inspector Prabhakar Singh of A&N Police, who identified the raw talent and, using his personal network, connected him with Dr. Rakesh Mishra — former Executive Secretary to the then BJP President Shri Amit Shah and National President of the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation. Dr. Mishra appreciated the commendable efforts being made in the Islands and assured his full support for the growth and promotion of boxing in the region.
The entire Andaman boxing team, coaches, and supporters have brought pride to the Islands. Their success is a testament to the growing sports culture in A&N Islands and reflects the determination and spirit of its youth.