The 30th Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship 2026, along with the 1st NWA Under-15 Championship, 1st NWA Provisional Championship, and the first Wrestling Festival 2026, organized by the Naga Wrestling Association, commenced on Friday at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground).
The inaugural programme was graced by Temjen Imna Along, Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, he said Nagaland is steadily progressing not only in sports but in various other sectors as well. He encouraged the people of the state to continue supporting such initiatives, noting that sports can significantly contribute to strengthening the state’s economy.
Highlighting the cultural significance of the sport, Along expressed hope that Naga traditional wrestling would continue to grow and eventually gain recognition at the international level. He praised the wrestlers for displaying strength, resilience, bravery and honour in the arena, adding that their performances represent not only individual excellence but also the rich cultural heritage of the Naga community.
The Minister also appreciated the efforts of the Naga Wrestling Association for organizing the grand event in collaboration with the state’s tourism department. He emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, stating that athletes serve as ambassadors of both the sport and their respective communities.
The second day of the festival will be graced by Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland, along with Sanjay Kumar Singh, President of the Wrestling Federation of India.
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In the Provisional Championship, Pukiye Shohe from the Sumi community emerged as the champion, while Yankithung Shitiri representing the Lotha tribe secured the runner-up position. Lumthsa Sangtam finished in third place, while Jochuhyu Semy of the Rengma tribe claimed the fourth position.
In the Under-15 Championship, Menuokhriezo Metha from the Angami tribe clinched the title. Mudoto Dozo of Chakhesang secured the second position, while Kütho Puro, also from Chakhesang, finished third. Chüre Pohena, another Chakhesang wrestler, placed fourth in the competition.
In the Under-15 category, the champion was awarded a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, while the runner-up received ₹80,000. The third-place winner was awarded ₹60,000 and the fourth-place winner ₹40,000. Quarterfinalists in this category will receive ₹10,000 each, while all participants will be given ₹5,000.
For the Provisional Championship category, the champion received a cash award of ₹2 lakh, while the runner-up was awarded ₹1 lakh. The third-place winner received ₹80,000 and the fourth-place winner ₹60,000. Quarterfinalists will receive ₹10,000 each, participants ₹5,000 each, and the best performing team will be awarded ₹30,000.
