Karnataka CM Praises M.R. Poovamma After Asian Games Success

Bengaluru: Two days following her achievements at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japanese sprinter M.R. Poovamma received heartfelt congratulations from Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Poovamma was part of the Indian team that clinched gold in the women's 4x400 metre relay and also secured a silver medal in the mixed 4x400 metre relay. On September 29, Poovamma and her teammates Kiran Pahal, Prachi, and Vithya Ramraj completed the race in a remarkable time of 3:29.69. Bahrain earned the silver medal, while China took home the bronze. This victory marked India's inaugural gold medal in track and field at the current Asian Games. Poovamma, who hails from Kodagu, is an Arjuna Award recipient, an honour given to recognise outstanding achievements in sports, which she received in 2015. She has represented India in various prestigious international events, including the Olympics and the Asian Games. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from SDM College of Business Management in Mangaluru. However, her mother, Jaji, voiced concerns regarding the lack of support for athletes from the Karnataka government. In an interview with Daijiworld TV on September 30, she stated, ‘Poovamma has been in athletics for nearly 20 years, but we have not received much support from the government.’ While acknowledging some assistance, she pointed out that the support for competition expenses in other states has been inadequate. Poovamma's triumphs at the Asian Games have highlighted her dedication to her sport and drawn attention to the need for improved support for athletes.