Imphal: The Manipur government has announced plans to develop a world-class polo ground at Lamphelpat in Imphal West district, signalling a major push to strengthen the state’s historic association with the sport of polo.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh made the announcement on Saturday while attending the closing ceremony of the 2nd Dr Ksh. Chourjit Singh Inter-District Polo Tournament 2026 at Mapal Kangjeibung, widely regarded as one of the oldest polo grounds in the world.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Manipur, known as the birthplace of polo, must have infrastructure that reflects its global cultural and sporting legacy.
He said the existing Imphal Polo Ground at Mapal Kangjeibung does not meet the standards required to host international-level matches, making the development of a new facility essential.
According to Singh, the state has already earmarked a 32-acre plot of land at Lamphelpat for the project, where a modern, international-standard polo ground will be developed.
Reaffirming his commitment to the initiative, the chief minister said he would personally visit the proposed site for inspection along with concerned officials and representatives of the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association to discuss planning and development modalities.
The tournament, organised by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, saw participation from 10 teams.
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The final match was contested between X Polo Club and Chingkheihunba Polo Club, and began with the ceremonial throw-in of the polo ball by the Chief Minister.
The closing ceremony was attended by family members of Dr Ksh. Chourjit Singh, MHRPA president H. Deleep Singh, technical chairman N. Bedajeet Singh, Ksh. Lakshaheb Singh, students and sports enthusiasts.
Later in the day, Singh also attended the 31st Martyrdom Anniversary of Saheed Madhumangal at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, where he paid floral tributes.
Earlier, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla had подчерк that the state is the birthplace of Sagol Kangjei—the original and living form of modern polo—and that the sport is an inseparable part of Manipur’s cultural identity.
