Shillong, July 23: A record 802 karatekas from 126 schools are taking part in the 32nd State-level Inter School Karate Tournament 2026, which got underway in Shillong on Thursday.
The three-day championship, organised by the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association (AMKA) with the support of the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, is being held at the Multipurpose Indoor Hall of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre on the NEHU campus.
This year’s participation has surpassed last year’s figures of 748 competitors from 104 schools, reflecting the continued growth of karate across Meghalaya.
St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School are the defending champions in the boys’ category, while Auxilium Girls’ Higher Secondary School hold the girls’ title.
The opening ceremony was attended by Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) Working President John F. Kharshiing as chief guest and MSOA General Secretary Finely L. Pariat as guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, Kharshiing commended AMKA for its sustained efforts in promoting karate at the grassroots level, describing it as “one of the few state associations to have an inter-school programme.”
Pariat also praised the association, calling AMKA “one of the best sports associations in the state” for its consistent work in developing the sport.
With Meghalaya set to host the 39th National Games next year, the tournament also provides an opportunity for promising young karatekas to showcase their talent as they aim for selection if karate is included in the Games programme.
During the ceremony, AMKA felicitated two Meghalaya karatekas for their medal-winning performances at the recent 10th South Asian Karate Championship in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Daniel Dabiangbha Warjri was honoured for winning the gold medal in the Boys’ Junior (-68kg) Kumite event, while Gideon Tympuin was recognised for securing bronze in the Men’s Under-21 Individual Kata.
The awards were presented by the chief guest and guest of honour, while Pariat also announced cash rewards from the Meghalaya State Olympic Association in recognition of the duo’s achievements.
Before the start of the competition, Daniel led the athletes’ oath, following which Kharshiing formally declared the tournament open.
