India’s medal tally at the 2026 Commonwealth Games received another major boost as weightlifter Rishikanta Singhclinched the country’s first silver medal with a remarkable performance in the men’s 60kg category. Displaying extraordinary strength and composure on one of the biggest sporting stages, the 28-year-old delivered the finest performance of his career, setting a new Commonwealth Games record in the snatch before finishing with a personal-best total.

Competing against an elite field of lifters, Rishikanta opened the competition in dominant fashion by successfully lifting 121kg in the snatch, breaking the previous Commonwealth Games record in the process. His technically flawless execution immediately placed him among the medal contenders and highlighted India’s continued excellence in weightlifting.

The clean and jerk segment proved equally competitive. Rishikanta continued his impressive form, successfully completing his lifts to register a combined total of 264kg, the highest total of his career. While it wasn’t enough to surpass Malaysia’s Mohamad Aniq Kasdan, who secured the gold medal with an outstanding 273kg, it comfortably earned the Indian lifter the silver medal. Kenya’s Joshua Amunga Mboya completed the podium with the bronze medal.

The silver medal carries significance beyond the podium. It is India’s second medal at the Games, following para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar’s bronze medal, and reflects the country’s growing consistency in strength sports on the international stage.

Rishikanta has steadily built a reputation within Indian weightlifting through years of disciplined training and strong performances at national competitions. His ability to produce a Commonwealth Games record under immense pressure demonstrates not only his physical strength but also the mental resilience required to compete at the highest level.

India has traditionally enjoyed success in Commonwealth weightlifting, producing champions who have consistently challenged the world’s best. Rishikanta’s breakthrough performance continues that legacy while also introducing another strong medal contender for future international competitions.

As the Commonwealth Games continue, Rishikanta Singh’s historic silver has provided fresh momentum for the Indian contingent. More importantly, his record-breaking lift has once again reaffirmed India’s position as one of the strongest weightlifting nations in the Commonwealth, inspiring a new generation of athletes to aim for the podium.