Tawang, February 18, 2026:
Chief Minister Pema Khandu met and congratulated Ms Akbari Khatoon from Tawang district for winning the National Gold Medal in the 56 kg category at the WPC National Powerlifting Championship 2026 held in Noida.
Born and brought up in Tawang and fluent in Monpa, Khatoon secured the top podium finish with impressive lifts, 110 kg in squat, 42.5 kg in bench press, and 117.5 kg in deadlift.
The Chief Minister praised her dedication and perseverance, noting her journey from District Champion to State Strong Woman and now National Champion as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across Arunachal Pradesh.
Her victory has also earned her the opportunity to represent India at the international level, bringing pride to the state and highlighting the growing strength of sports talent from the region.
