Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on July 12 congratulated Manipuri middle-distance runner Bhumeshwory Devi Huidrom for securing the bronze medal in the women’s 800m event at the Asian U23 Athletics Championships 2026 in Ordos, China.
In a post on X, Singh described the achievement as a proud moment for both Manipur and the nation, praising the athlete’s talent, commitment and perseverance.
“Heartiest congratulations to our talented Manipuri athlete Bhumeshwory Devi for winning a Bronze Medal in the Women’s 800m event at the Asian U23 Athletics Championships 2026 in Ordos, China. This achievement is a proud moment for the country and it reflects your exceptional talent, dedication and hard work. I wish you continued success in your athletic career and many more medals in the future,” he wrote.
The 22-year-old athlete from Huidrom Awang Leikai created history by becoming one of the few sportspersons from Manipur to win an international athletics medal.
Bhumeshwory finished third in the women’s 800m final with a time of 2:10.20, narrowly edging China’s Gejing Zhu by 0.03 seconds. Uzbekistan’s Jonbibi Hukmova claimed the gold medal after clocking 2:08.41, while Japan’s Kurumi Sugure took silver in 2:09.42.
Widely regarded as one of Manipur’s emerging middle-distance runners, Bhumeshwory has represented India at both national and international competitions. Her podium finish at the continental championship marks a major milestone in her career and further strengthens Manipur’s reputation as a leading contributor to Indian sport.
