ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh government, in a gesture of solidarity and recognition, has assured cash incentives to three state Wushu players, who were barred from participating in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, due to visa issues.
Highlighting that the three players – Onilu Tega, Nyeman Wangsu, and Mepung Lamgu – were the pioneering athletes from Arunachal Pradesh to qualify for the Asian Games, Chief Minster Pema Khandu announced a cash incentive of Rs 20 lakh each as per the state’s sports policy.
“They missed a significant event due to circumstances beyond their control,” he was quoted as saying by the local press. As a gesture of goodwill, the Chief Minister also declared that coach Maibam Premchandra Singh would be entitled to 10% of the incentives allocated to the athletes.
The players, alongside Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Mama Natung, their coach and officials from the Arunachal Olympic Association and Arunachal Wushu Association, met the Chief Minister to discuss their predicament on Wednesday.
While consoling the young talents, Khandu said, “True sportspersons rebound from setbacks, focusing on the next challenge. Though you missed this opportunity, you remain heroes and potential medallists in our eyes.” Khandu further advised them to fixate on the 2026 Asian Games in Tokyo and ensured that the state would finance their training, diet, and other necessities.
Highlighting the future benefits, Khandu pointed out that Arunachal’s sports policy guarantees government employment to distinguished sportspersons, reassuring them of their bright futures.
Expressing their gratitude, the athletes said, “Though we couldn’t compete this time, we remain undeterred. Our aim is to perform with zeal in the 2026 Asian Games, striving to bring laurels to Arunachal Pradesh and India.”
Wushu, while popular in many Asian countries, is yet to secure its position in the Olympics. The Chief Minister praised the Arunachal Olympic Association and Arunachal Wushu Association for advocating the athletes’ visa concerns with the Indian Olympic Association.
