After a two-year break, the 15th edition of the Manipur Polo International 2025 returned on Saturday at Mapal Kangjeibung, the world’s oldest living polo ground in Imphal.
Organised by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA), the international polo tournament will continue till November 28, 2025.
This year, a total of five teams have lined up for the tournament. The teams include Team United States, Team Colombia, the India Polo Association (India A), Team Chhattisgarh, and Manipur (India B).
Speaking to media persons, H Dilip Singh, President of the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, said that the opening match is being played by teams from the US and Colombia.
“These two teams have come from the other side of the globe and we are sure that the standard of the game will improve as they get more acquainted with the ponies,” said Singh.
He also urged the public to extend their support so that the spirit of the game continues.
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Speaking as the chief guest, Chief Secretary of Manipur, Puneet Kumar Goel, lauded the organisers for their relentless efforts in promoting the polo game, which originated in Manipur.
“When we celebrate polo in Manipur, we celebrate not only athletic excellence but also a living heritage that continues to inspire all of us,” said the Chief Secretary.
This tournament is not only a competition but also a tribute to the legacy of Manipur’s polo, he added.
The Chief Secretary further emphasised that the government reaffirms its collective commitment to nurturing this heritage and ensuring that the world remembers the game of polo.
“We are preparing a roadmap to popularise this game and to upgrade our infrastructure to have more international coaches and international tournaments. We are working on a DPR along with the Ministry of DONER, so we hope that we’ll be ready with our roadmap very soon,” he added.
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