Minister for Tourism & Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along graced the 30th Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship 2026 and the 1st NWA Wrestling Festival 2026, held at Khuochiezie, Kohima on 6th March 2026.
The event was organised by the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland.
In his address, Along expressed happiness at seeing how far Naga traditional wrestling has progressed over the years. Asserting that promoting Naga traditional wrestling is not only the responsibility of the association but also of the Naga youth and the community at large, Along said everyone has a role to play in promoting the sports industry and the wrestlers represent today are the ambassadors of the sport.
The Minister observed that Nagaland is making progress not only in wrestling but in various other fields as well. He remarked that Nagas are naturally physically fit and that the spirit of sportsmanship among the people should continue to be encouraged. He added that many young people have the potential to champion the cause of sportsmanship for the Nagas and the nation.
Along also pointed out that sports today can bring both recognition and economic opportunities. Success in sports, he said, not only brings pride and honour to families and the state but can also contribute to the economic well-being of the players and their communities.
Speaking on the significance of Naga traditional wrestling, he stated that the sport is now known not only among the Nagas but also among wrestling communities across the country. He described it as both a product and a way of life of the Nagas, reflecting the strength, courage and traditions of the people. He encouraged the wrestlers to bring honour to the sport not only within their communities but also on wider platforms.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Nagaland Wrestling Association and all those who have worked tirelessly to organise the event. Such initiatives, he said, help strengthen unity and community spirit while promoting sports among the youth.
Delivering the welcome address, NWA Advisor Er. Lhoubeizo Kesiyie welcomed the dignitaries, officials, wrestlers and spectators to the championship and the first wrestling festival. He described the gathering as a significant occasion for the wrestling fraternity and thanked the Minister of Tourism and the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland for their support in bringing the festival to the state. He also welcomed guests and associations from outside the state and acknowledged the presence of 20 former NWA champions. Kesiyie added that such events help foster fellowship and unity among the people of Nagaland.
Chairing the programme, NWA President Kenlum Hemang said the event marked an important milestone for the association. He noted that the championship was not merely a sporting contest but also reflected discipline, cultural, tradition and youth empowerment.
Earlier, the programme began with the hoisting of the NWA flag by former NWA President Neikhrolo Khalo, while the torch was carried by reigning NWA Champion Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü. The invocation was pronounced by NWA General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao, Senior Pastor, CBCHK, and the oath of sportsmanship was administered by NWA Technical Secretary, Vekhriyi Chüzho. As part of the cultural segment, folk songs were presented by Vekutalu and Thunonulu with a Chakhesang folk tune, while a Sumi folk song was performed by Kungo Lejo of Shesulimi.
The day’s competitions highlighted the 1st NWA Under-15 Championship and 1st NWA Provisional Championship as part of the wrestling festival. Young and emerging wrestlers from various Naga tribes — including Angami, Chakhesang (Chakesang), Zeliang, Chang, Lotha, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, and Sumi — participated, showcasing their skills and advancing the spirit of traditional Naga wrestling.
(Molungnenla, IA kohima)
