The Assam Rifles, India’s oldest Paramilitary Force, will launch its Mahila Polo Team on 06 May 2024, at Imphal’s historic Mapal Kangjeibung Polo Ground. This landmark event 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 sports recruitment drive of the Force. Over the past one year, these illustrious women have trained themselves as soldiers, as also honed their skills in Manipuri Polo. This ground breaking initiative serves as a testament to the commitment of Assam Rifles towards promotion of local sports and empowerment of women.
Since 2016, Assam Rifles has been recruiting women soldiers to serve the Nation. In 2022, the Force took a significant step of recruiting women excelling in sports, thereby opening a new avenue for them. Assam Rifles has always championed sports, to cultivate 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.
Anusuiya Uikey, the Governor of Manipur, will grace the occasion as Chief Guest. As anticipation builds for the launch of AR Mahila Polo Team, Major General Ravroop Singh, SM, IGAR(S) has informed that this event transcends the realm of sports. He further added that 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.
Report- Pratyusha Mukherjee
Source: IGAR (S)
