Manipur is reclaiming its rightful place on the global sporting map. On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, held a high-level review meeting. During this session, they discussed a comprehensive polo development roadmap for Manipur. This initiative aims to blend the state’s ancient heritage with modern infrastructure to transform it into a premier global hub for the sport.
Read More: Regional Ties Strengthen: Assam CM to Visit Tripura Sundari Temple and Meet CM Saha
Restoring the Heritage of Sagol Kangjei
Historically, Manipur is recognized as the birthplace of modern polo, originally known as Sagol Kangjei. The Union Minister emphasized that the polo development roadmap for Manipur must honor this legacy. Consequently, the plan focuses on re-establishing Manipur as “India’s Polo Capital.”
Minister Scindia suggested that the state government should structure the development in a phased manner. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, he advised identifying talent from various districts based on geographic clusters. These players will then be linked to a central “Centre of Excellence.” This system ensures that grassroots talent receives professional training from a young age.
Key Pillars of the Development Roadmap
The review meeting at Lok Bhavan, Imphal, highlighted several strategic objectives. The polo development roadmap for Manipur is designed to be outcome-driven rather than just expenditure-based.
- World-Class Infrastructure: The plan includes establishing international-standard coaching centers and training academies.
- Pony Conservation: Protecting the endangered Manipuri Pony is a critical component. Without these sturdy, indigenous horses, the traditional form of the sport cannot survive.
- Sports-Linked Tourism: The government intends to integrate polo into the broader tourism circuit. By hosting international tournaments like the Manipur International Polo, the state can attract global visitors and boost the local hospitality sector.
- Heritage Tournaments: The roadmap calls for reviving traditional tournaments that showcase Sagol Kangjei, allowing the world to see the sport in its original, vibrant form.
Economic Impact and Youth Empowerment
The polo development roadmap for Manipur is more than just a sports project. Instead, it serves as a vehicle for socio-economic growth. Minister Scindia remarked that the sport is an “emblem of identity and opportunity.” By investing in polo, the government creates new career paths for local youth—not just as players, but as coaches, trainers, and administrators.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla welcomed these suggestions and assured that they would be incorporated into the implementation phase. He noted that the entrepreneurial spirit of Manipuri youth provides a strong foundation for this sports-led economy. Furthermore, the roadmap aligns with the national “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” vision, leveraging local strengths to achieve global recognition.
A Vision for Stability and Growth
The meeting also touched upon the broader context of Manipur’s stability. Governor Bhalla emphasized that promoting sports like polo fosters social cohesion and reconciliation. The polo development roadmap for Manipur offers a constructive outlet for the state’s energy. As the Ministry of DoNER acts as a proactive facilitator, the focus remains on ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable.
By connecting “Vibrant Villages” to the PM Gati Shakti framework, the government ensures that even remote polo grounds have the necessary logistics and connectivity. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of the roadmap reach every corner of the state.
Conclusion: A New Era for the Sport of Kings
The review by Governor Bhalla and Minister Scindia marks a turning point for the sport in India. The polo development roadmap for Manipur is a pledge to preserve a 2,000-year-old tradition while embracing the future. As world-class facilities rise and local talent shines, Manipur is set to gallop back onto the world stage.
This roadmap proves that heritage can be a powerful engine for modern growth. With disciplined execution and central support, the dream of making Manipur the undisputed Polo Capital of the world is now closer to reality.
Read More: Jaipur Makes History: Army Day 2026 Parade Moves to the Heart of the Pink City