Kohima, March 7 (NationPress) - The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, celebrated Naga traditional wrestling as a vibrant expression of the identity, heritage, and unyielding spirit of the Naga populace on Saturday. Speaking as the chief guest at the 30th Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship and the inaugural Wrestling Festival 2026 held at Khuochiezie ground, Rio emphasized that this indigenous sport is a living legacy handed down through many generations.

He remarked that Naga wrestling transcends mere physical prowess, embodying values such as character, discipline, and integrity. The Chief Minister highlighted that the championship fosters unity among people through culture, sports, and a collective identity. He praised the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) for its dedication to safeguarding and promoting this traditional sport while maintaining its cultural essence.

Rio expressed his delight that this sport, previously mainly practiced in the Tenyimi region, has expanded its reach across the state.

Referring to the wrestlers as ambassadors of Naga culture, Rio encouraged them to pursue excellence and continually challenge their limits. On the occasion of the 30th championship, he urged the community to reaffirm their commitment to preserving traditions while welcoming progress.

The Chief Minister assured that the state government is devoted to enhancing sports infrastructure and promoting indigenous games alongside contemporary sports. He affirmed that the government will keep creating opportunities for young athletes to compete at regional, national, and international levels.

During the event, Rio also distributed financial support of ₹1 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Sports Fund to six wrestling associations – the Rengma, Sumi, Lotha, Pochury, Chang, and Sangtam.

The event was graced by Deputy Chief Ministers Yanthungo Patton and T. R. Zeliang, Nagaland Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, along with other advisors, MLAs, and dignitaries. Sanjay Kumar Singh, President of the Wrestling Federation of India, attended as the Honoured Guest and expressed his joy at the championship reaching its landmark 30th edition.

He announced financial aid for equipment procurement to bolster wrestling development and assured that proposals related to the sport's promotion would be approved in the upcoming financial year.

Singh stressed the importance of taking Naga traditional wrestling beyond state borders and promised efforts to elevate the indigenous sport to the national level.

In his presidential address, NWA President Vivolie Kezo urged the public to support wrestlers beyond the competitive arena. He also mentioned that a felicitation program for the top performers would occur on March 9.

The event showcased a captivating Angami folk song performance by the Tsahore Group of Khuzama, enchanting the audience. Organized by the Nagaland Wrestling Association with assistance from the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Tourism, the championship featured 54 wrestlers, with 18 participants each from the Angami Sports Association, Chakhesang Wrestling Association, and Zeliang Wrestling Association.

The champion will receive a cash prize of ₹6 lakh along with a plot of land donated by Tepuleho Pusa and his family. The second and third place winners will earn ₹3 lakh and ₹2 lakh respectively, while the fourth-place winner will be awarded ₹1.5 lakh.

This year’s championship also introduced two new categories – the inaugural NWA Under-15 Championship and the first NWA Provisional Championship, which took place on March 6.