Historic Silver for India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Indian weightlifter Chanambam Rishikanta Singh for clinching the silver medal in the men's 60kg event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on Sunday, July 26. This was India's first silver medal at the ongoing Games, and the second overall after para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar's bronze earlier.
In a post on X, PM Modi praised Singh's determination and outstanding performance, stating: "Very proud of Indian lifter Rishikanta Singh Chanambam for winning a Silver Medal and also achieving his personal best. His determination and outstanding performance have brought immense joy to the nation. May he continue to scale greater heights and inspire many young athletes. Best wishes for his future endeavours!"
Record-Breaking Performance
Rishikanta Singh finished with a combined total of 264kg (121kg snatch + 143kg clean and jerk). Malaysia's Mohamad Aniq Kasdan claimed the gold medal with a Commonwealth Games record total of 273kg (121kg snatch + 152kg clean and jerk). Kenya's Joshua Mboya took bronze with 260kg (115kg + 145kg), according to ESPN.
The Indian lifter made a strong start in the snatch, successfully clearing 116kg before improving to 119kg. On his final attempt, Rishikanta lifted 121kg to break the Commonwealth Games snatch record and set a new personal best. Kasdan, however, matched the 121kg effort moments later, leaving the two lifters tied at the top after the opening discipline.
Dramatic Clean and Jerk
In the clean and jerk, Rishikanta safely opened with a successful lift of 143kg to take the overall lead temporarily with a total of 264kg. Kasdan responded by clearing 145kg and then 149kg to move ahead with 270kg, putting the pressure back on the Indian. Needing 151kg on his final attempt to reclaim the lead, Rishikanta completed the clean but was unable to lock out the jerk, ending his challenge for gold. Kasdan then capped off a dominant performance by lifting 152kg in his final clean and jerk attempt to register a Games record total of 273kg.
Impact and Inspiration
Prime Minister Modi's message highlighted the significance of Singh's achievement: "His determination and outstanding performance have brought immense joy to the nation." The silver medal not only marks India's first in the 2026 Commonwealth Games but also underscores the country's growing prowess in weightlifting. Singh's personal best and record-breaking snatch have set a new benchmark for Indian lifters.
The performance has been widely celebrated across India, with sports officials and fans lauding Singh's effort. The Indian weightlifter's journey from a small town to the international stage serves as an inspiration for young athletes. As the Games continue, the nation looks forward to more medals from the contingent.
