Hemant Soren honours police archers at All India Police Archery Championships

RANCHI: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday felicitated winning teams and outstanding athletes at the closing ceremony of the 15th All India Police Archery Championships 2026-27, held at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium in Khelgaon, Ranchi.

The Chief Minister congratulated the participants on their performance and praised their discipline, dedication and sporting spirit. He encouraged them to continue practising and working hard to achieve greater success at national and international competitions.

Addressing the ceremony, Soren said hosting the prestigious championship was a matter of pride for Jharkhand. He said sports promote discipline, self-confidence, concentration and a competitive spirit, and urged athletes to pursue their goals with commitment and perseverance.

Soren also felicitated Ankita Bhakat, an archer associated with Tata Archery Academy. The Chief Minister praised her achievement and encouraged other athletes to draw inspiration from her performance. According to the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the Indian archery team won a gold medal at the Asian Games under her leadership.

CISF, ITBP win team titles

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) secured first place in the women’s section with 37 points. Uttar Pradesh Police finished second with 34 points, while Assam Rifles and the Border Security Force (BSF) shared third place with 23 points each.

In the men’s section, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) topped the standings with 53 points. Uttar Pradesh Police finished second with 22 points, followed by Rajasthan Police with 21 points.

Soren congratulated the winning and runner-up teams and other athletes who delivered outstanding performances. He said sports go beyond winning and losing, helping build character, teamwork, discipline and confidence.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the participating athletes would continue to perform well and bring recognition to the country and their respective states. He also congratulated the organisers on the successful conduct of the championship.

Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary Vandana Dadel, Director General of Police Tadasha Mishra, All India Police Sports Control Board representative Meena Bharti, Additional Director Generals of Police Priya Dubey and Manoj Kaushik, senior police officers, members of the organising committee and athletes from participating police teams attended the ceremony.