Rishikanta Singh produced a personal-best performance in Glasgow to secure India's first silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026. The Manipuri weightlifter lifted a total of 264kg (121kg snatch and 143kg clean and jerk) in the men's 60kg event, finishing second behind Malaysia's Mohamad Aniq Kasdan, who set a Games record of 273kg. Kenya's Joshua Mboya took bronze with 260kg.
Family Reaction
Speaking from Imphal, Rishikanta's younger brother Chanambam Premchandra expressed pride despite the family's initial hope for gold. "I expected the gold medal from my brother, but unfortunately he got a silver medal, but I am very proud of his achievement," Premchandra told ANI. Sister-in-law Chanambam Ongbi Ichan added, "We got very excited and happy that his hard work has come to fruition. My in-laws were also very excited and happy."
PM Modi's Congratulations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Rishikanta on X, writing, "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!"
Performance Details
The 60kg competition featured a gripping duel. Rishikanta successfully lifted 116kg, 119kg, and a personal-best 121kg in the snatch, momentarily breaking the Commonwealth Games snatch record. Kasdan matched the 121kg effort, leaving both lifters level. In the clean and jerk, Rishikanta opened with 143kg to take the overall lead. Kasdan responded with 145kg, 149kg, and a Games-record 152kg. Rishikanta needed 151kg on his final attempt to surpass Kasdan but couldn't lock out the jerk after completing the clean, settling for silver with a new personal best total.
Context and Impact
Rishikanta's silver was India's second medal at the Glasgow Games, following para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar's bronze. Olympic champion Mirabai Chanu later secured India's first gold in the women's 48kg category. The achievement underscores India's growing depth in weightlifting, with Rishikanta's personal best reflecting years of rigorous training in Manipur. His family's pride and the nation's recognition highlight the significance of this silver, even as gold narrowly eluded him.
