Imphal: In a significant move towards empowering women in sports, the Assam Rifles, the country’s oldest Paramilitary force, is set to launch its first Women Polo Team on 6 May, 2024 at Imphal’s historic Mampal Kangjeibung Polo ground.
The landmark event will be inaugurated by Manipur Governor Miss Anusuiya Uikey. It will witness the congregation of esteemed dignitaries, sports enthusiasts and proponents of gender equality as the team puts its best foot forward in Manipur polo.
The Assam Rifles Mahila Polo Team is composed of six highly skilled Manipuri women soldiers or Riflewomen, who were handpicked in 2023 through an elaborate selection process, as part of the sports recruitment drive of the force.
Over the past year, these illustrious women have trained themselves as soldiers and also honed their skills in Manipuri Polo. This groundbreaking initiative serves as a testament to the commitment of Assam Rifles towards promotion of local sports and empowerment of women, a top official of the force said.
Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, SM, IGAR(S), said since 2016, Assam Rifles has been recruiting women soldiers to serve the nation. In 2022, the force took a significant step in recruiting women excelling in sports, thereby opening a new avenue for them.
The Assam Rifles has always championed sports, to cultivate an environment of sportsmanship, camaraderie and unity among its ranks. Since 2017, the Assam Rifles only had a Men’s Polo Team, which has risen to prominence and already earned accolades for itself in Manipuri Polo, he added.
The General further said by empowering women, fostering regional harmony and upholding Manipur’s rich polo heritage, Assam Rifles is forging a powerful legacy that will inspire generations to come. The historic event will invigorate the tradition of Manipuri Polo, which has witnessed setbacks due to COVID–19 and ethnic clashes in the recent past.
