Neelakshi Saikia becomes Nagaon's first national boxing referee

Guwahati: Neelakshi Saikia has achieved a major milestone for sports in Assam by becoming the first woman from Nagaon district to qualify as a national boxing referee. She earned this professional distinction after passing the National Referee Examination, which was held during the Kaziranga Rhino Cup Professional Boxing League at Golaghat Stadium.

This professional league, the first of its kind hosted in Assam, was organised by the Assam Boxing Association under the supervision of the Boxing Federation of India. Athletes from across the country participated in the event, representing states and territories including Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Ladakh. The accompanying examination served as a gateway for officials to gain national accreditation.

The local sporting community has celebrated the achievement as a pivotal moment for women in boxing administration and officiating. Supporters believe this success will pave the way for others, as many describe it as a "significant milestone for women's participation in sports officiating and boxing administration in the district." Saikia’s accomplishment is now expected to encourage more young women in the region to pursue professional careers in coaching, sports management, and officiating.