Sixteen-year-old para cyclist Lisha Das from Assam’s Biswanath district has created history by becoming the first para-athlete from the state to qualify for the XXIII Commonwealth Games, scheduled to be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2.A Class XI student of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Biswanath, Lisha has been selected to represent India in the para track cycling event. At just 16 years of age, she is also the youngest athlete in India’s contingent for the Glasgow Games, adding another milestone to her achievement.Her selection marks a significant moment for Assam’s sporting history and highlights the growing presence of athletes from the Northeast on the international stage.
The achievement is being seen as a major boost for para sports in the state, where participation and recognition have steadily increased in recent years. The Paralympic Association of Assam congratulated Lisha on her selection, describing it as a proud moment for the state. The association expressed confidence that her achievement would inspire many young para-athletes across Assam to pursue sports at the highest level. India will send a 124-member contingent to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. The Indian team will compete in athletics, boxing, weightlifting, judo, artistic gymnastics, track cycling, lawn bowls, swimming and five para-sport disciplines, including para track cycling.
Lisha’s journey from Biswanath to earning a place in the Indian team reflects her determination and hard work. Her qualification is expected to encourage greater participation in para sports across Assam and the Northeast while showcasing the region’s growing contribution to Indian sports on the global stage.
