Shillong, Nov 01: In a historic milestone for the sporting fraternity of Meghalaya, the Meghalaya Judo Association (MJA) is hosting the National Black Belt (BB) / NDIC Gradation Coaching Camp and Examination, East Zone 2026–27 for the first time in the history of the State.
The prestigious national-level event is being conducted from 29th October to 3rd November 2026 at the Sri Aurobindo Institute of Indian Culture (SAIIC), Bivar Road, Shillong.
The opening ceremony was held on 30th October 2026, graced by Smti. Isawanda Laloo, IAS, Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest. Shri Finely L. Pariat, General Secretary, Meghalaya State Olympic Association, attended as the Guest of Honour, while Shri Jay Singh, Commandant, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), was present as the Special Guest.
A particularly memorable highlight of the occasion was the presence of Shri Satish Sharma, 6th Dan Red and White Belt in Judo, former Indian Judo Team Coach and the pioneer who introduced Judo in Meghalaya in 1987.
Now residing in Uttarakhand, Shri Sharma is attending the event as the Chief Examiner. His presence is especially significant as he returns to the State where he laid the foundation for the development of Judo nearly four decades ago.
The event is also being conducted under the technical guidance and supervision of Shri Banee Brata Das, 6th Dan Red and White Belt in Judo and General Secretary, Judo Federation of India, who is attending as one of the principal examiners.
Approximately 150 participants, comprising Judokas, coaches and officials from different states of the East Zone, are participating in the coaching camp and examination.
The programme aims to enhance technical knowledge, strengthen practical Judo skills and assess the proficiency of candidates appearing for Black Belt and NDIC gradation in accordance with the prescribed standards of the Judo Federation of India.
The Meghalaya Judo Association has made extensive arrangements for the successful conduct of the event, including accommodation and meals for all participants.
Accommodation facilities have been arranged at the Youth Hostel, State Convention Centre and the residential rooms available at the event venue, ensuring the comfort and convenience of the participating Judokas, coaches and officials.
Hosting this prestigious national-level event for the first time in Meghalaya is a matter of immense pride for the State and a significant achievement for the Meghalaya Judo Association.
It provides an important platform for local Judokas, coaches and officials to interact with eminent national-level Judo experts and gain valuable technical exposure. The event is expected to give further impetus to the promotion and development of Judo in Meghalaya and the entire North Eastern Region.
The Meghalaya Judo Association expresses its sincere gratitude to the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Meghalaya, Judo Federation of India, Meghalaya State Olympic Association, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and all other supporting organisations and individuals for their valuable support, cooperation and encouragement in making this historic event possible.
