India’s young boxing contingent began their campaign at the 3rd Asian Youth Games 2025 in emphatic fashion, with Khushi Chand and Chandrika Bhoreshi Pujari delivering confident, back-to-back victories in the preliminary rounds at Exhibition World Bahrain Hall 9.
After a composed start on the opening day, Khushi Chand continued India’s momentum with a clinical display in the Girls’ 46kg category, defeating Reem Al-Ramahi of Jordan by a unanimous 5–0 decision. Khushi showcased remarkable ring awareness, maintaining control across all three rounds through sharp movement, crisp combinations, and excellent tactical discipline. Her dominant performance ensured smooth progression into the next stage of the competition.
Meanwhile, Chandrika Pujari followed suit with a strong win, further consolidating India’s early presence at the tournament. Her precise footwork and composed aggression kept her opponent on the defensive throughout, reflecting the technical growth of India’s youth boxing setup.
India’s campaign began on a winning note on Thursday, when Devendra Choudhary delivered a commanding performance in the Boys’ 75kg pre-quarterfinal bout. Using a smart, patient approach, Devendra controlled the pace of the contest and outclassed his opponent to secure India’s first victory of the Games. His composure and superior tactical awareness provided the perfect foundation for the rest of the squad.
The Indian boxing contingent at the Asian Youth Games consists of 23 members, competing across 14 weight categories seven in the boys’ division and seven in the girls’. The team arrived in Bahrain earlier this week following an intensive month-long training camp at the National Institute of Sports (NIS) Patiala, held from September 23 to October 20. Under the guidance of national coaches Vinod Kumar and Jitender Raj Singh, the boxers underwent rigorous sessions focusing on technical refinement, ring strategy, and conditioning to adapt to international-level competition. The coaches emphasized ring intelligence, precision, and controlled aggression traits that were clearly visible in India’s opening performances.
The early wins by Khushi, Chandrika, and Devendra have set the tone for what promises to be a strong campaign for India’s youth boxers. The team’s confident start reflects both preparation and growing maturity at the grassroots level of Indian boxing. With bouts scheduled to continue through October 30, India’s young pugilists will now aim to sustain their momentum and push for multiple podium finishes. The upcoming rounds are expected to test the boxers’ adaptability and endurance, but early signs suggest that Team India is well-equipped both technically and mentally to make a deep run in Manama.
India’s performances in Bahrain so far highlight the growing depth in the nation’s youth boxing structure and with each passing day, the next generation of Indian boxers continues to prove that the future of the sport remains bright.
