Arunachal Pradesh’s Tayar Ronik has made history by securing the state’s first-ever gold medal in weightlifting at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025. Competing in the 73kg category, Ronik lifted a total of 267kg, narrowly edging out Assam’s Hemanta Doimari by just one kilogram.
Ronik’s victory marks a breakthrough moment after missing out on medals in previous editions of the tournament and national championships. His winning lift included 154kg in clean & jerk, which sealed his triumph over Doimari, who had lifted 146kg in snatch and 120kg in clean & jerk. Madhya Pradesh’s Himanshu Kushwaha settled for bronze with a total lift of 255kg.
Reflecting on his achievement, Ronik expressed his joy, calling the win a “huge relief” after years of hard work and perseverance. “I am delighted with this victory as this is my first Khelo India medal after participating for the third time. Also, I had missed out on a medal in the Nationals in my previous three attempts, so it is a huge relief for me as I know how much hard work I put in to reach here,” he shared.
Ronik revealed that after failing to secure a medal at the Indian Weightlifting Federation National Youth Championships last year, he refused to return home, determined to win a medal before seeing his family again. “I didn’t go to my hometown after the Nationals in October last year as I was very unhappy with myself for not being able to win a medal there. I resolved that I would go home only when I won one,” he said.
Ronik, who began lifting weights at the age of nine, has now cemented his place as one of Arunachal Pradesh’s rising sports stars. His victory has been widely celebrated, with sports authorities and fans hailing his dedication and perseverance.
Earlier in the competition, Arunachal Pradesh had secured two bronze medals in weightlifting, with Tersu Tali (-66kg) and Taba Titung (-60kg) earning podium finishes.
With this historic win, Ronik has not only brought glory to his state but has also inspired young athletes across the country to pursue excellence in weightlifting.
