Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio with dignitaries and officials during the 30th Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship-cum-1st Wrestling Festival 2026 held at Khuochiezie, Kohima on March 7. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima |March 7
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio today said that that Naga indigenous wrestling, is far more than a sport.
“It is a living heritage passed down from our forefathers. For generations, it has symbolized strength, discipline, courage, and respect. Our forefathers regarded wrestling not just as a contest of physical power, but as a test of character and integrity, Dr Rio said while addressing the second day of the 30th NWA Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship 2026 & 1st Wrestling Festival 2026 at Khuochiezie, Kohima Local Ground.
The championship was organised by Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) while the 1st Wrestling Festival 2026 was powered by Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India and Department of Tourism, Govt of Nagaland.
From village grounds to organize state-level competitions under the able guidance of NWA, Naga wrestling has grown in stature and professionalism, Dr. Rio said and commended the Association for its tireless efforts in preserving, promoting, and modernizing this indigenous sport while safeguarding its traditional essence.
He also expressed happiness that Naga wrestling has now moved beyond the Tenyimi area and is spreading to other parts of the State-to Sumi, Lotha, Rengma, Pochury, Sangtam and Chang communities.
“This expansion reflects the unifying power of our traditional sport,” he said.
He donated Rs. 1 lakh each to six Wrestling Associations of Sumi, Lotha, Rengma, Pochury, Sangtam and Chang through CM Sports Fund in appreciation of the entry into Naga wrestling.
Wrestling today is no longer confined to one region; it is becoming a shared pride of all Nagas across Nagaland, he said.
Nagaland is a small State with no major industries or large-scale enterprises that make us widely known to the outside world. However, we are richly blessed with culture, courage, and sporting talent, the Chief Minister maintained.
As wrestling is our strength and a defining part of our identity, we must make every effort to excel and distinguish ourselves in this arena, he said adding “Let us excel in what we do best and showcase to the nation and the world that Nagaland stands tall through its tradition, discipline, and sporting excellence.”
Dr Rio said that sports play a crucial role in shaping a healthy and progressive society, he said adding that it foster unity, channel youthful energy in positive directions, and promote physical and mental well-being.
In a time when our youth face many distractions and challenges, traditional sports like wrestling offer a powerful platform to build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging, he said.
Stating that the championship is also an occasion that brings communities together, Dr. Rio said “The cheers of the crowd, the colors of our traditional attire, and the shared pride in our wrestlers strengthen the bonds that unite us as Nagas. In this arena, we witness not division, but unity-unity through culture, unity through sports, and unity through shared identity.”
‘Govt committed to promoting sports infrastructure’
The Chief Minister assured that the Government of Nagaland remains committed to promoting sports infrastructure and supporting indigenous games alongside modern disciplines.
We recognize that preserving our traditional sports is essential to safeguarding our cultural heritage. At the same time, we will continue to create opportunities for our young sportspersons to compete at regional, national, and international levels, he said.
“As we celebrate this milestone 30th Championship, let us renew our commitment to preserving our traditions while embracing progress. Let us encourage our younger generation to take pride in who we are, to value discipline and hard work, and to carry forward the legacy entrusted to them, “ Dr. Rio said.
May Naga traditional wrestling continue to grow from strength to strength, Dr. Rio stated.
Sanjay Kumar Singh, president Wrestling Federation of India and Omarmukhtar Tamboli, President of the All India Traditional Wrestling & Pankration Federation also addressed the wrestling fans.
Deputy Chief Ministers Y Patton, TR Zeliang, ministers and advisors also present at the the Championship.
NWA joint secretary Kuzhovesa Soho chaired Day 2 function while NWA president Vivolie Kezo delivered presidential address.
Angami Catholic Union assisted the meet as ground management team.
