Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: More than 900 karatekas and officials from seven northeastern states descended on Shillong for the 5th KIO North East Zone Karate Championship 2026. The competition kicked off October 23 at the NEHU Convocation Hall. It marks the first time in nearly 30 years that Meghalaya has hosted this regional event. The All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association organized the meet alongside the state Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs under the Karate India Organisation banner.
Meghalaya sent 292 competitors to the mats. They quickly secured several podium spots in individual kata before moving into kumite sparring matches. The event concludes this Saturday. Winners earn a ticket to the KIO Inter-Zonal Karate Championship 2026 in New Delhi later this year.
Sports Minister Wailadmiki Shylla attended the opening as chief guest. KIO president Bharat Sharma presented him with an honorary black belt. Shylla pointed to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma for backing local sports infrastructure and training. During his speech, Shylla said, "I hope Meghalaya would host more such events to provide local karatekas with opportunities to showcase their skills and compete at higher levels."
AMKA president Hunlang Lytan thanked the government for scholarships and cash rewards for winners. The ceremony also spotlighted international stars, including Gideon Tympuin and Daniel Dabiangbha Warjri. Other officials on hand included John F Kharshiing, Finely L Pariat, Mutum Bankim Singh, and Premjit Sen.
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