Nagaland’s Hinokali and Kitenlo K. Thono have been selected to represent India at the 9th Asian Pencak Silat Championship 2025, scheduled to be held in Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam, from July 23 to 31, 2025.
Announcing the news on social media, Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) Secretary General Abu Metha stated, “This marks a historic first for Nagaland — our athletes qualifying to represent the country in Pencak Silat at the continental level!”
Kitenlo hails from Ehunnu Village in Tseminyu District, while Hinokali is from Izheto Village, VK area, in Zunheboto District.
Both athletes secured their spots after winning gold in the Tanding (Match) category at the 13th Senior National Championship held in Lucknow. They are also proud medalists at the National Games.