Union minister joins kayaking fun as Indians sweep podium at Tawang championship

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju showcased his paddling skills at the closing of the Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship (TTIKC) II, a thrilling six-day kayaking event on the fast-flowing Tawangchu River in Arunachal Pradesh. His participation marked a historic first for a Union minister, reflecting his passion for sports and adventure.

The championship also saw Indian kayakers shine. Shikha Chouhan and Bhumi Baghel of Madhya Pradesh and Elizabeth Vincent of Meghalaya clinched the top three honours, demonstrating the growing calibre of Indian athletes in white-water kayaking.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said Rijiju’s involvement underlined a commitment to both athletes and adventure tourism. “His presence encourages our sportspersons and highlights Arunachal Pradesh as a premier destination for adventure sports,” he said.

The event, held in the remote villages of Khurung and Bongleng near the India-China border, is not only a sporting spectacle but also a boost for local development. Bilquis Mir , chairperson of the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA) , noted that the championship helped improve infrastructure and amenities for residents while attracting more visitors to the region.

Rijiju himself shared on X, “Excited to attend Tawang-Chu Tides International Kayaking Championship 2026 closing ceremony and prize distribution at Bongleng-Kharung-Lungla along the majestic Tawangchu River. What a great destination for adventure sports and eco-tourism in India!”

TTIKC, now in its second edition, promises bigger and more competitive white-water kayaking in the coming years, supported by the Arunachal Pradesh government , IKCA , Arunachal Kayaking and Canoeing Association (AKCA), and the Arunachal Olympic Association .

Perched at over 10,000 feet, Tawang is steeped in history and natural beauty. The Tawangchu River, fed by Tibet’s Tsona Chu and Nyamjang Chu , flows through Bhutan before joining the Brahmaputra in Assam. The district is also the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso , and home to one of Asia’s oldest monasteries, founded in 1680.