India's boxing history has a new name to celebrate. Lairenlakpam Ambekar Meetei has delivered a landmark achievement, clinching the country's first-ever boxing gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games and ending a long wait for India on the prestigious international stage.

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The young boxer defeated Ireland's Kristian Jubani 3-2 on points in the men's 50kg final at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games to secure the historic gold.

Meetei's triumph marks a significant moment for Indian boxing, as the country had never won a gold medal in the sport at the Youth Olympics before.

His victory also brings the spotlight on the emerging boxing talent from Manipur, the northeastern state that has consistently contributed to India's sporting achievements.

The road to the gold medal was far from straightforward. Meetei had already announced his arrival on the international stage with a commanding 5-0 victory over Colombia's Izzon Jeffrey Galea Arevalo in the semifinal.

The unanimous decision secured his place in the final and ended India's 16-year wait for a Youth Olympics boxing finalist.

With the semifinal hurdle behind him, Meetei faced Ireland's Jubani in the title clash. The closely fought contest eventually went India's way, with the young pugilist securing a narrow 3-2 points victory.

The gold medal is more than an individual milestone. It represents a breakthrough for Indian boxing at the Youth Olympics and gives the country's next generation of fighters a moment to draw inspiration from.

For Meetei, the victory is a defining chapter in his young career. For India, it is a first that will be remembered in the history of its Olympic boxing journey.