Sri Vijaya Puram, July 9: In a proud moment for the Union Territory, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri Ravindra Singh Yadav, IPS, officially hosted and felicitated the medal-winning state Pencak Silat team today. A total of 19 triumphant young athletes were honored for their stellar performance at the recently concluded 14th National Pencak Silat Championship 2026.
The team was presented alongside their young National Coach-cum-Player, Shri M. Logarjun, Shri M. Manikandan and Shri M.S. Murugan (Ex-Sub Inspector, A&N Police, IRBn), who serves as the President of the Pencak Silat Association of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The contingent recently returned from Tapovan, Nashik, Maharashtra, after competing in the national tournament from 25th to 28th June 2026. Organised under the auspices of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation—which holds official recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sports Authority of India—the championship saw participation from across the country.
Competing against fierce competition in the Singa, Macan, pre-teen, sub-junior, and junior categories, the island’s prodigies aged between 5 and 16 years showcased exceptional mastery, bringing home a massive haul of 19 national medals:3 Gold Medals, 4 Silver Medals, 12 Bronze Medals.
Interacting with the young martial artists, Respected DGP Shri Ravindra Singh Yadav lauded their dedication and continuous streak of bringing laurels to the archipelago. Highlighting the importance of early physical development, the DGP stated that starting martial arts training at a very young age serves as a vital foundation for a student’s mental clarity, self-defense capabilities, and long-term health.
He heavily emphasised that the younger generation must actively pivot toward physical fitness and disciplined sports to combat modern lifestyle challenges. Our Respected DGP further assured continuous encouragement for the sport, motivating the young champions to strive for international arenas and continue driving the islands forward as a major hub for sports excellence.