The Mokokchung District Martial Art Association (MDMAA) held its farewell-cum-handing and taking programme on June 13, 2026, at Mokokchung.
The programme was chaired by the office bearers of MDMAA, while the invocation was delivered by Dr Imyuangdang.
Advisor of MDMAA, Lemsashi also addressed the gathering and conducted the formal handing and taking over of responsibilities between the outgoing and incoming office bearers.
Outgoing Treasurer of MDMAA, Imliyanger Jamir, in his address, shared his experiences during his tenure and acknowledged the support and efforts of the members of the association.
Recalling the condition of the association, he said that MDMAA was at a stage where it was surviving on “oxygen” and that the members had to put in collective efforts to keep the association intact and move it forward.
He recalled how the members came together, encouraged one another and worked with a united spirit to revive and strengthen the association. He said that while starting a journey together may be easy, carrying the responsibilities and challenges along the way requires commitment and dedication from everyone.
He acknowledged the hard work put in by all members and encouraged the new team to continue working together for the growth of MDMAA.
Imliyanger stressed the need to encourage more youngsters towards martial arts and physical fitness, stating that there are not many youngsters showing interest in the field. He recalled the association’s efforts in conducting demonstrations and visiting various schools in Mokokchung to create awareness on martial arts and physical exercises.
He further stated that active participation, sharing ideas and brainstorming among members were important for the progress of the association. He also acknowledged MDMAA and expressed his appreciation to all those who contributed towards strengthening and reviving the association.
Meanwhile, outgoing President of MDMAA, Rongsentoshi Jamir, spoke about the history and objective behind the formation of MDMAA. He stated that during 1985-86, there were several issues related to martial arts, particularly in terms of administration, as many disciplines came in separately to the district and the functioning went messy.
He said that the administration suggested streamlining these disciplines under a parent body, especially during a time when many youngsters were interested in taking up martial arts. Following this, the need to form an organised association was felt.
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Rongsentoshi recalled the contributions of late Sashi Leo, Sashi Walling and Sentimeren, who came forward positively, prepared the constitution and worked towards forming the association. As a result, MDMAA was formed on August 7, 1991, with the objective of bringing different martial arts disciplines under one platform.
He further stated that several combat sports disciplines have gained recognition under the Olympics and emphasised that every combat sports discipline should be recognised as a sport.
Speaking about the journey of MDMAA, Rongsentoshi said that the association became defunct in 2014, and although several attempts were made by individuals to revive it, the efforts could not progress much. Later, a few members came together along with the office members took up responsibilities and worked towards reviving the association.
He acknowledged the contribution of outgoing Treasurer Imliyanger, stating that he made great sacrifices and played an important role in helping MDMAA move forward. He also mentioned that the association successfully organised its Jubilee celebration and highlighted achievements, including member Mongsen Longkumer winning Gold in an international event.
The programme also witnessed the formal handing and taking over of responsibilities between the outgoing and incoming office bearers. The newly inducted office bearers for the session 2026–30 are Imyuangdang (President), Talimoa (Vice President), Imtisungkum (General Secretary), Temjennaro Longchar (Assistant General Secretary), Nukshikala Jamir (Finance Secretary), Jaksungmenla Longkumer (Assistant General Secretary), and Imkongwati (Treasurer), along with members of the Executive Committee and Technical committee and Medical Consultant.
The programme concluded with a brief gathering held at the residence of the newly appointed Treasurer for the session 2026–30 at Arkong Ward, Mokokchung.
