Nipjyoti Kalita
Itanagar, June 17: Following her defeat at the BRICS Sports Games 2024 in Kazan, Indian athlete Johnny Mangkhiya, from Arunachal Pradesh took to social media to express her frustration over inadequate training facilities and support. Despite her best efforts, Mangkhiya was unable to secure a victory against the host team, Russia, underscoring the challenges Indian athletes face on the international stage.
In her emotional post, Mangkhiya thanked supporters for their encouragement but shed light on the significant gaps in her preparation. “Without the Coach I don’t think I would be able to win on the international platform,” she shared. “They have personal coaches and trainers…I have nothing to compare with them. I don’t have any coaches, neither a trainer nor an academy. I have been doing self-training for three-four years.”
Her experience raises questions about the effectiveness of the “double engine” governance model touted by both the Central and State governments, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, respectively. Both governments claim to be working in full swing to support the sports sector, yet Mangkhiya’s remarks reveal a stark reality.
“I don’t think that from this training I will be enough to bring glory to my country. All I need is a good coach and good trainer; if I had that too, I would definitely make my country proud,” she continued.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu congratulated Mangkhiya and her fellow athletes, Abab Sangdo and Mesom Singhi, for their participation in the BRICS Games. “I am so happy and proud to share that Arunachalee karatekas Abab Sangdo, Johnny Mangkhiya, and Mesom Singhi will represent India at BRICS Games 2024 in Kazan! Best wishes to our athletes as they showcase their talent on this international stage,” Khandu stated.
While these acknowledgments are commendable, Mangkhiya’s candid message highlights the urgent need for better training infrastructure and support for athletes.
