Shillong, April 28: The State Boxing Championship 2025–26 opened at Mawlai Mawroh, bringing together young athletes from across Meghalaya for a four-day competition focused on junior and youth categories.
Organised by the Meghalaya Boxing Association with support from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, the tournament features 105 boxers representing eight districts along with several established clubs. Participants are competing in junior (15–16 years) and youth (17–18 years) divisions, with bouts conducted across standard weight categories.
MBA Technical Director Larry Kharpran said the championship reflects the growing reach of boxing in the state, noting that the sport, once largely confined to the Khasi Hills, now attracts participation from multiple districts, signalling wider grassroots development.
Assistant Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Paia B War Nongbri, who attended as chief guest, highlighted the sport’s potential ahead of the upcoming National Games of India, which Meghalaya is set to host. He said structured training and institutional support could help produce athletes capable of competing at higher levels.
Officials confirmed that 45 senior boxers from the state are currently undergoing training in preparation for the national event, with the ongoing championship expected to serve as a platform to identify and nurture emerging talent.
Addressing participants, War Nongbri urged young athletes to balance their sporting commitments with education while continuing to refine their skills. He added that the state government remains open to extending further support to the association, including access to specialised coaching.
The event is being attended by representatives of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, local authorities and members of district boxing bodies.
