Shillong, Oct 23: Karate athletes from seven northeastern states converged in Shillong for the 5th KIO North East Zones Karate Championship 2026, as Meghalaya steps up preparations for the 39th National Games next year.
Organised by the Karate India Organisation (KIO) and hosted by the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association, the championship brought together competitors from Meghalaya, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Tripura.
The event provided young karatekas an opportunity to test their skills against regional competitors and prepare for national-level competitions.
Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wiladmiki Shylla congratulated the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association for its efforts to promote karate and thanked the KIO for allowing Meghalaya to host the championship.
With the state preparing to host the National Games in 2027, Shylla said the competition would help athletes assess their performance, identify areas for improvement and strengthen their readiness for the major sporting event.
He encouraged participants to make the most of the opportunity, saying competing at home during the National Games would give Meghalaya athletes the advantage of local support and familiarity.
Shylla also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure and creating more opportunities for young athletes. He credited Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s support for the expansion of sports facilities and athlete development programmes.
Highlighting the Meghalaya Outstanding Sportspersons Direct Appointment Policy, the minister said employment opportunities for medal-winning athletes could help encourage families to support their children’s sporting ambitions. The policy provides for direct government appointments to eligible athletes who win medals at recognised competitions, subject to its provisions.
He also pointed to the inauguration of Shillong’s second Sports Science Centre, which is intended to provide athletes with scientific and technological support, including assistance with recovery and performance improvement.
During the event, Shylla expressed gratitude to the KIO for conferring on him a first-degree black belt, an honour he said he accepted with humility.
KIO president Bharat Sharma, treasurer Mutum Bankim Singh and other officials attended the championship, along with representatives of participating state karate associations and technical officials.
Meghalaya State Olympic Association president John F. Kharshiing and general secretary F. Pariat were also present, along with officials from the state Sports and Youth Affairs Department.
The All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association felicitated karatekas from the Northeast who have brought recognition to the region through their performances in national and international championships.
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