First Nagaland State Judo Championship begins in Mokokchung

Morung Express News 
Mokokchung | September 10

The first Nagaland State Judo Championship 2026 began at Eden Academy, Mokokchung, on Thursday, with 472 participants from nine districts taking part.

Organised by the Nagaland Judo Association (NJA), the three-day championship is being held from September 10 to 12 under the theme, “United by Judo. Driven by Excellence.”

Participants from Zunheboto, Phek, Kohima, Chümoukedima, Dimapur, Tuensang, Meluri, Mon and Mokokchung are competing in the championship.

Mokokchung Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma, the Special Guest, declared the championship open. In his inaugural address, he said the first State-level judo championship marked a significant beginning for the sport in Nagaland, providing opportunities for talent identification, competitive exposure and the development of a sporting pathway.

He encouraged the athletes to compete for excellence rather than medals alone and emphasised the values of discipline, respect, resilience and sportsmanship that judo instils.

Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, who was scheduled to attend as Guest of Honour but could not make it, conveyed his message to the championship. He congratulated the NJA and highlighted its efforts since its establishment in 2019, including initiatives promoting grassroots development and women's participation in judo.

Jamir said the championship was a milestone in the association’s efforts to build a structured and sustainable pathway for young athletes across Nagaland.

The inaugural programme included a welcome address by NJA president I Temsu Jamir, a special performance by Eden Academy students, oath-taking by athletes and officials, and the commencement of competition.