The Junior Age

Author: Mitali k

India Set New Records At the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025

India’s weightlifters set the stage ablaze at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025, hosted at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad from 24 to 30 August. The event turned into a true pan-Commonwealth spectacle, drawing around 290 athletes from nearly 30 countries. Competing on home soil, Team India not only clinched the top spot on the leaderboard but also produced record-breaking performances that made the entire country proud. The Junior Age has all the details here!

Know all about India’s Stellar Performance at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025:

When & Where Was Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025 Held

The championship marked the 30th edition overall and the 25th senior edition of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships. Ahmedabad turned into a hub of power, grit, and glory, with lifters from across the Commonwealth nations battling it out.

Medal Wins in Senior Category

India’s senior squad brought home 13 medals: 4 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze.

  • Mirabai Chanu (W 48 kg) dazzled the crowd with gold and a 193 kg total, smashing three Commonwealth records.
  • Ajith Narayana (M 71 kg) lifted his way to gold.
  • Ajaya Babu Valluri (M 79 kg) won gold with a 335 kg total.
    Other medals came from Soumya Dalvi, Sneha Soren, Bindyarani Devi, Nirupama Devi, Mehak Sharma, Dilbag Singh, Harjinder Kaur, Lovepreet Singh, and Vanshita Verma.

Also read, Mirabai Chanu Wins Gold at Commonwealth Championships

Medal Wins in Junior & Youth Categories

The juniors and youth lifters carried the momentum forward, sweeping trophies across boys and girls. India claimed 27 medals, including several record-breaking feats.

  • Sairaj Pardeshi (M 88 kg) struck gold with 348 kg, setting a junior Commonwealth record.
  • Koyel Bar (W 53 kg) lifted 192 kg, a Youth World Record, earning the Best Lifter trophy.

Other gold winners included:

  • Arumugapandian Maharajan (M 60 kg)
  • Yash Khandagale (M 65 kg)
  • Hemanta Doimari (M 71 kg)
  • Bedabrat Bharali (M 79 kg)
  • Parv Chaudhary (M 94 kg)
  • Tushar Chaudhary (M 110 kg)
  • Mina Santa (W 58 kg)
  • Bidusmita Bhoi (W 63 kg)

By the end of the championship, the Indian contingent had amassed a total of 40 medals, including 27 gold, 10 silver and 3 bronze, ensuring a clean sweep of the overall top position.

Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025

Full List of Indian Participants

Senior Medalists:

  • Mirabai Chanu (W 48 kg) – Gold
  • Ajith Narayana (M 71 kg) – Gold
  • Ajaya Babu Valluri (M 79 kg) – Gold
  • Soumya Sunil Dalvi (W 48 kg) – Silver
  • Sneha Soren (W 53 kg) – Silver
  • Bindyarani Devi (W 58 kg) – Silver
  • Nirupama Devi (W 63 kg) – Silver
  • Mehak Sharma (W 86+ kg) – Silver
  • Dilbag Singh (M 94 kg) – Silver
  • Harjinder Kaur (W 69 kg) – Bronze
  • Lovepreet Singh (M 110+ kg) – Bronze
  • Vanshita Verma (W 86 kg) – Bronze

Junior & Youth Medalists:

  • Sairaj Pardeshi (M 88 kg) – Gold, Junior Record
  • Koyel Bar (W 53 kg) -Gold, Youth World Record + Best Lifter
  • Arumugapandian Maharajan (M 60 kg) – Gold
  • Yash Khandagale (M 65 kg) – Gold
  • Hemanta Doimari (M 71 kg) – Gold
  • Bedabrat Bharali (M 79 kg) – Gold
  • Parv Chaudhary (M 94 kg) – Gold
  • Tushar Chaudhary (M 110 kg) – Gold
  • Soumya Sunil Dalvi (W 48 kg) – Gold (Junior)
  • Mina Santa (W 58 kg) – Gold
  • Bidusmita Bhoi (W 63 kg) – Gold

The victory marks another big step for India’s rising women footballers, proving the country’s youth talent is ready to shine on bigger stages.

Lastly, watch a full video on Neeraj Chopra’s Incredible Journey

No More Phones In Classrooms: South Korea Announces Nationwide Ban

South Korea has taken a bold leap into the future of education. They decided that starting in March 2026, there will be a ban on using mobile phones in the classrooms. Lawmakers voted strongly in favour of the ban, saying it is time to bring focus back to books, teachers, and classmates rather than constant scrolling. The Junior Age has all the details here!

South Korea Bans Mobile Phones In Classrooms, Know All About It:

South Korea has passed a bill banning the use of mobile phones during school. This decision comes after 37% of students admitted that social media affects their daily lives. Amongst which 22% said they feel anxious when separated from their phones.

That means many kids are struggling to focus, sleep, or even relax because their devices demand constant attention. Lawmakers argued that classrooms should be safe spaces where children can learn and interact without the pull of endless scrolling.

What Will the Mobile Phones Ban Look Like?

Until now, schools had their own rules. Some teachers collected phones before class, while others allowed students to keep them in bags. But the new law is nationwide, and it leaves no room for confusion.

  • No phones in classrooms across primary, middle, and high schools.
  • Students with special needs will be exceptions.
  • Phones can still be used for genuine schoolwork under teacher supervision.

So, the aim is not to completely ban technology, but to make sure gadgets serve learning instead of hijacking it.

No More Phones In Classrooms: South Korea Announces Nationwide Ban

The Bigger Goals

The government hopes this change will:

  • Reduce distractions so students can listen and engage more.
  • Boost face-to-face communication, helping kids build real friendships.
  • Cut down on smartphone addiction and related anxiety.
  • A chance to explore other hobbies – sports, art, clubs
  • Protect mental health by creating phone-free zones.

And, Social Media is to be banned for under-16s.

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India’s U-17 Women Storm to Victory at SAFF Championship 2025

Football fans in India have plenty to celebrate! The Indian U-17 women’s football team, famously called the Young Tigresses, has been crowned champions of the Women’s U-17 SAFF Championship 2025 in Bhutan. With dazzling goals, tough defending, and never-give-up spirit, the girls showed South Asia what teamwork and determination can achieve. The Junior Age has all the details for you.

Know All About The U-17 Women’s Team Picking The Trophy At The SAFF Championship 2025:

The tournament was held in Thimphu, Bhutan, from 20 to 31 August 2025. The four teams – India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh competed in a double round-robin format, meaning each team played the others twice.

India’s U-17 Women Crushing Wins and Goal Galore at the SAFF Championship

What stood out was India’s ability to score freely. Against Nepal, they stormed to a 7-0 victory. Bhutan, the host nation, felt the full force of India’s attack in two games, losing 8-0 and 5-0. Even when matches became tougher, the girls kept fighting and finding the back of the net.

In total, India scored a stunning 27 goals in six matches, a statistic that highlights their dominance on the pitch. For fans watching, it was pure entertainment. For the players, it was a reward for all the training hours and hard work behind the scenes.

Highlights From The Winning Match

By the time India faced Bangladesh in their final game, they were already champions. But the last match turned into a thriller that had everyone on the edge of their seats.

  • Bangladesh shocked India by scoring in the very first minute.
  • India’s Anushka Kumari equalised in the 9th minute, showing her sharp striker’s instinct.
  • Bangladesh regained the lead, but India kept pressing.
  • In the 89th minute, captain Julan chipped in a clever equaliser to make it 3-3.
  • Just when it looked like a draw, Bangladesh scored in injury time, winning the match 4-3.

Even though India lost that game, it did not matter. They had already sealed the title, and the celebrations went on in full swing.

Star Players Who Stole the Show at the SAFF Championship 2025

Every player played her part, but two names grabbed the spotlight.

Anushka Kumari, only 14 years old, finished as the top scorer of the tournament with 8 goals in 6 matches. Her speed, finishing, and bravery in front of the goal made her one of the brightest young talents to watch in Indian football.

India’s U-17 Women Storm to Victory at SAFF Championship 2025

Abhista Basnett was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP). With 4 goals and 3 assists, she proved that she could score, create chances, and inspire her teammates.

Together with Captain Julan and the rest of the squad, these players have become role models for girls across India who dream of playing football.

Also, read about Khalid Jamil: India’s New Football Coach.

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Rare Jurassic Sea Creature Fossil Found In Rajasthan

When you picture Rajasthan, you probably think of sand dunes, camels, and forts shining in the sun. But here’s the twist! Recently, scientists uncovered a 200-million-year-old Jurassic fossil of a reptile called a phytosaur near Jaisalmer. And no, it’s not a dinosaur. Hidden under those golden sands is a secret from the Jurassic world.

All About The Jaw-Dropping Phytosaur Jurassic Fossil Unearthed In Rajasthan’s Desert:

Researchers in India have discovered the fossilised remains of a rare crocodile-like species from the Jurassic era in the western state of Rajasthan.

Meet the Phytosaur

The Jurassic fossil, known as a Phytosaurs, looked a lot like crocodiles, with long snouts and sharp teeth. However, this fossil belonged to their own family of reptiles. This one was about 1.5 to 2 metres long, making it the size of a small car.

They had short legs, wide, heavy bodies with rows of armoured scales, long tails, and long, toothy snouts. According to a study, the only obvious difference between crocodiles and phytosaurs is that crocodiles have their nostrils at the ends of their snouts, and phytosaurs have them on a raised hump in front of their eyes. Despite the strong similarities between phytosaurs and crocodiles, the two groups are not closely related. 

According to reports, they lived in freshwater rivers and lakes, feeding on fish and other aquatic creatures that swam by. Moreover, alongside the skeleton, scientists also spotted a fossilised egg which could have belonged to the reptile.

Rare Jurassic Sea Creature Fossil Found In Rajasthan

Where Was This Jurassic Fossil Found?

The fossil was discovered in Megha village, close to Jaisalmer. This area is part of the Lathi Formation, which is renowned for preserving fossils from the Cretaceous period, the age of the dinosaurs. Locals first noticed unusual bones near a lake, and when experts took a closer look, they realised they were holding a once-in-a-lifetime discovery.

This fossil is special because:

  • It’s the first well-preserved phytosaur fossil ever found in India.
  • It proves Rajasthan wasn’t always desert; it once had rivers and watery landscapes.
  • It helps scientists piece together how reptiles lived during the Jurassic period.
  • In fact, experts say the area could become a fossil tourism hotspot, where people can travel to see real prehistoric treasures.

Also, read about Meet the “Hell Ant”: Oldest Ant Fossil Ever Found from Dinosaur Times

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India’s Para Stars Gear Up for World Para Athletics in New Delhi 2025

The countdown is on! India is all set to host the World Para Athletics Championships 2025 for the very first time, and the excitement is soaring. From javelin champions to sprint queens, our para athletes are ready to light up the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

World Para Athletics in New Delhi Event Snapshot at a Glance:

With over 100 countries expected to participate, this is the largest para sporting event to take place in India, making it a proud moment for both athletes and fans. Know more details below:

  • Dates: 27 September to 5 October 2025
  • Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi
  • Mascot: Viraaj, a spirited young elephant with a running blade, symbolising strength and resilience
  • Events: 186 medal events (101 men, 84 women, 1 mixed)
  • Countries Participating: Over 100 teams from across the globe
India’s Para Stars Gear Up for World Para Athletics in New Delhi 2025

Also read, Introducing Viraaj Mascot For 2025 World Para Athletics Championships

Know Team India’s Trailblazers

India has named a 73-member squad (19 women & 54 men) to compete across multiple track and field categories.

Flag Bearers:

  • Dharambir Nain is a Paris Paralympics gold medallist (club throw)
  • Preethi Pal is a Sprint star and Paralympic bronze medallist

Lead Athlete:

Javelin sensation Sumit Antil (double Paralympic champ) leads the squad

Star Athlete:

Sumit Antil is a Double Paralympic gold medallist in javelin throw, leading India’s charge

Quick Peek At Some Athletes to Watch At The World Para Athletics 2025

Women

  • Preethi Pal: Sprint star, Paralympics bronze medallist, Arjuna Awardee
  • Deepthi Jeevanji: Runs 400m T20, world record holder, Arjuna Awardee
  • Bhagyashri Jadhav: Shot Put F34 specialist from Maharashtra

Men

  • Solairaj Dharmaraj: Army Subedar, long jump T64 gold at Asian Para Games
  • Soman Rana: Shot put F56/57, strong national performer with international achievements
  • Valasamgari Bhavani: Multi-event athlete (100m, 200m, long jump, shot put), World Grand Prix 2025 champion

P.S.: This list is just a glance! India’s squad covers a wide array of athletic heroes. You can find the full roster here if you want to explore more names!)

Also read, Para Swimmer Jiya Rai Conquers The World!

Know Why This Championship Is Historic

The World Para Athletics Championships 2025 is a milestone moment for India. For the very first time, the country will host this prestigious event, placing New Delhi on the global para sports map.

It is also set to witness the biggest-ever participation of athletes for a para sporting event in India, making it larger and more inclusive than anything seen before. What makes it even more special is that Indian athletes will get the rare chance to showcase their skills in front of a roaring home crowd, an energy that can push them to break barriers and set new records.

Beyond the medals and the competition, this championship marks a massive boost to the culture of para sports in India, bringing recognition, respect, and inspiration to athletes and fans alike.

World Para Athletics in New Delhi 2025

The World Para Athletics Championships 2025 in New Delhi is more than just a sporting event; it is a celebration of courage, resilience, and world-class talent. With legends like Sumit Antil, Dharambir Nain, and Preethi Pal leading the way, India is ready to roar.

Mark your calendars: 27 September to 5 October 2025. It’s time to cheer loud and proud for our para champions!

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