New Delhi, 23 July (H.S.): India’s long-awaited efforts to build a strong athlete development system in judo are now showing results at the international level. Backed by improved training facilities, scientific preparation methods and consistent support, four Indian women judokas have secured places in the Indian contingent for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026.

The selected athletes include Madhya Pradesh’s Yamini Maurya, Uttarakhand’s Unnati Sharma, Punjab’s Ishroop Narang and Manipur’s Takhelambam Inungnabi. All four players have earned their spots in the national team through consistent performances and impressive progress over the past few years.

The judokas have been receiving training and support under the joint athlete development programme of Axis Bank and the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS). Through this initiative, more than 500 athletes have received assistance so far, including 471 junior judokas and 53 elite women judokas.

Athletes supported under the programme have won more than 140 medals at national and international competitions. They have also received opportunities to participate in 11 international training camps held in countries such as Japan, Georgia and Uzbekistan, helping them gain exposure to world-class competition and improve their skills.

Axis Bank Group Head Vijay Mulbagal said providing athletes with the right environment and high-quality training has led to continuous improvement in their performances. He added that the selection of four players for the Commonwealth Games is a significant achievement in this direction.

Meanwhile, IIS President Manisha Malhotra said the institute’s aim is not only to train athletes but also to provide them with all necessary resources and support required to succeed at the international level.

The emergence of new talent in Indian judo in recent years, particularly from the northeastern states and other regions, indicates that the sport’s foundation in the country is becoming stronger. All eyes will now be on these athletes as they look to contribute to India’s medal campaign at the Commonwealth Games with their performances.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar