Imphal: The 4th Chittamohini State Women’s Polo Cup, 2026 concluded on a high note today as Assam Rifles Women Polo Team clinched the title with a convincing 6–3 victory over Imphal Riding Club (IRC) in the final match held at the historic Imphal Pologround (Mapal Kangjeibung).
Organised by the Manipur Horse Riding & Polo Association (MHRPA), the tournament’s grand finale witnessed an intense and competitive encounter, drawing a large number of polo enthusiasts, students and dignitaries.
Assam Rifles began the match with confidence and took early control in the first chukker. O. Veronica struck the opening goal, setting the tone for her team. She was soon supported by N. Laxmi Devi, who added another goal to give Assam Rifles a 2–1 lead at the end of the first chukker, with IRC managing to pull one back through K.H. Deventi Devi.
In the second chukker, Assam Rifles maintained pressure. Th. Bindu Devi found the target with a well-timed strike, while N. Laxmi Devi netted her second goal of the match. IRC responded with a goal from L. Lucy to keep the contest alive. The score stood at 4–2 in favour of Assam Rifles at halftime.
The third chukker saw a tighter defensive display from both sides. Though chances were created, neither team was able to convert, and the scoreline remained unchanged at 4–2.
In the fourth and final chukker, Assam Rifles sealed their dominance. O. Veronica scored her second goal of the match with a powerful drive, while Th. Bindu Devi added her second to complete the tally of six goals. IRC managed one more goal through M. Mona Devi, but it was not enough to close the gap. The final whistle confirmed Assam Rifles Women Polo Team as champions with a 6–3 victory.
The winning team, Assam Rifles Women Polo Team, received a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with the trophy. Imphal Riding Club, the runners-up, were awarded Rs 40,000. O. Veronica of Assam Rifles was adjudged the Best Player of the tournament and received a cash award of Rs 10,000. Participating teams were also presented Rs 3,000 each as encouragement.
Dr. Shyam Sundar Rath, Vice-Chancellor of National Sports University, attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, he praised the players for their skill and determination and highlighted Manipur’s proud legacy as the cradle of modern polo. He emphasized the importance of strengthening women’s participation in traditional sports and assured continued institutional support for nurturing young talent.
Khumantham Diana Devi, IAS, Director (Transport) and Additional Secretary (Veterinary & A.H.), Government of Manipur, who presided over the function, lauded the organisers for successfully hosting the tournament. She expressed pride in the rising standards of women’s polo and encouraged sustained grassroots development.
Brig Pratyush Kumar, YSM, Commander 9 Sector Assam Rifles, and N. Radhapyari Devi, Associate Professor (Retd.), attended as Guests of Honour and congratulated both teams for displaying exemplary sportsmanship.
The ceremony concluded with the declaration of the tournament closed by the Chief Guest, followed by the lowering of the flag and vote of thanks, marking yet another successful chapter in the promotion of women’s polo in the state
