Panchami Sonowal Clinches Silver at Khelo India Youth Games Amidst Setback

In the quaint surroundings of Ziadhal Chariali in Assam, the Sonowal family gathered at a modest tea stall, receiving a phone call that stirred a mix of pride and anxiety. The news that their daughter, Panchami Sonowal, had secured a silver medal in the women’s 49 kg weightlifting event at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2023 filled the air with both celebration and tension.

Competing against the youth national record holder in the snatch category, Panchami demonstrated resilience, finishing second with an overall weight of 167 kg. Maharashtra lifters Arati Tatgunti and Soumya Dalvi claimed the gold and bronze medals, respectively, breaking Panchami’s previous record in the process.

Despite harboring ambitions to set national records in both categories, Panchami faced a challenging moment. After a painful fall and difficulty walking, X-ray results thankfully ruled out any fractures. Panchami expressed her determination, stating, “It hurts, but I should be fine in a couple of days.”

This achievement marked the 18-year-old weightlifter’s second medal in four events at the KIYG Games. With recent victories in national junior weight titles and international championships, Panchami continues to make consistent progress, supported by her parents Luhit and Budheswari Sonowal.