Less than 48 hours after completing her Class 12 board exams, 17-year-old Alish Ekka secured a silver medal at the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) 2026 in Chhattisgarh. Alish, hailing from Santoshpur village in Odisha, transitioned from hockey to race walking under the guidance of coaches at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium.
Born to Pramila Ekka, a former state-level hockey player who had to give up the sport due to financial constraints, Alish had aspired to represent India in hockey. However, limited opportunities led her to switch to race walking, a decision that proved fruitful as she clinched the silver in the women’s 10,000 meters race walk.
Balancing rigorous training sessions with her studies, Alish dedicated herself to excelling in race walking, a sport she had never tried before. Her hard work paid off as she crossed the finish line with a timing of 1:04.59, marking a significant achievement in her sporting journey.
The timing of her victory was particularly poignant, coming right after her board exams. Alish’s success not only reflected her dedication but also honored her mother’s sacrifices and unwavering support in the face of financial challenges.
Alish’s mother, Pramila, the family’s sole provider earning a modest income, has been a pillar of strength for Alish and her younger brother. Alish acknowledges her mother’s sacrifices and resilience, attributing her success to the unwavering support and encouragement she receives at home.
