Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday flagged off the second edition of the Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship on the Tawangchu River atop the Himalayas in Tawang.
Over 100 athletes from India and abroad participated in this high-altitude event, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s growing role in adventure sports. “The Tawangchu River once again witnessed history as we flagged off the 2nd edition of the Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship amidst the majestic Himalayas of Tawang,” Khandu stated.
“It gives me immense pride to welcome over 100 athletes from across India and abroad to this high-altitude sporting spectacle. Also, my heartfelt appreciation to the Arunachal Olympic Association, Arunachal Kayaking & Canoeing Association (AKCA), Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association (IKCA), the organising committee, Indian Army, SSB, district administration and all partners for making this event a grand success,” the Chief Minister said. Special recognition was given to Bilquis Mir, India’s first female Olympic jury member in kayaking and canoeing, whose attendance was cited as inspirational for young athletes.
“I congratulate all participants and wish them the very best. May this championship continue to grow in stature and inspire a new generation of champions from our great state,” he stated. The Chief Minister highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s natural rivers, well-suited for kayaking and canoeing. He referenced AKCA’s proposal to develop five river basins as training hubs and confirmed that the relevant memorandum has been submitted. Khandu assured that the state government, in coordination with technical experts and IKCA, would establish more training centers to promote the sport.
“There was a time when Arunachal Pradesh ranked among the lowest in national sporting performance. Today, as per the 38th National Games rankings, we stand second in the Northeast after Manipur,” he said, expressing confidence about further improvement in the upcoming 39th National Games. He attributed these achievements to leadership at the national level and sustained investments in youth development, sports policy, and infrastructure.
