State Archery Championship 2026 Kicks Off in Shillong with Over 200 Participants

Shillong, India Aug 11, 2026 ALN: The State Archery Championship 2026 commenced on Tuesday at the Sports Authority of India Centre located on the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) campus in Shillong, attracting over 200 participants, including archers and officials. This event marks a significant occasion for the archery community in the region, highlighting the sport's growing popularity and the commitment of local athletes to excel on both state and national stages.

The championship is being organized by the Archery Association of (AAM) and spans three days, featuring a diverse range of competitions. Participants will compete across various categories, including Indian Round, recurve, and compound events, with both team and individual formats. This structure allows for broad participation and showcases the depth of talent within the state, as archers of all ages come together to demonstrate their skills and sportsmanship.

On the opening day, Isawanda Laloo, the Secretary of the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, graced the event as the chief guest. She was accompanied by notable figures including Finely L Pariat, the General Secretary of the State Olympic Association, and Khroobok Passah, the Assistant Director of Sports and Youth Affairs. Their presence underscores the importance of this championship not only as a competitive platform but also as a community event that fosters local pride and unity.

During the opening ceremony, Laloo and Pariat engaged in a hands-on experience with recurve bows, providing them with a firsthand understanding of the physical demands of the sport. They commented on the immense strength required to pull the bowstring, which is a critical aspect of archery that often goes unappreciated by those outside the sport. Their participation serves as a symbolic gesture of support for the athletes, encouraging them to pursue excellence in their craft.

Laloo emphasized the preparations being made by the state government, sports associations, and athletes for the upcoming 39th National Games scheduled for next year. This event is expected to be a significant milestone for , as it will not only highlight the state’s sporting capabilities but also promote tourism and local culture. The government's proactive approach in fostering sports development is evident from the recent achievements of AAM at the 1st Khelo India Tribal Games earlier this year, where the association secured two gold medals and one bronze in archery. "That shows that all the efforts of the association are paying off," Laloo remarked, reflecting on the positive trajectory of archery in the state.

In her address, Laloo also spoke about the responsibility that rests on the shoulders of the young athletes, stating, "On your slender shoulders lies the hope that this legacy will be carried forwards and translated into many more medals in future." This inspirational message serves to motivate the participants, reminding them of the pride and expectations that accompany their sport.

Furthermore, Laloo announced that two Centres of Excellence are being established in Garo Hills and Khasi-Jaintia Hills. These centers are intended to provide specialized training and resources for aspiring archers, thereby nurturing talent at the grassroots level. The establishment of such facilities is crucial for the long-term development of the sport in the region, as it ensures that young athletes have access to quality coaching and training infrastructure.

The keynote address was delivered by Smti Matsiewdor War Nongbri, an IAS officer and the Chief Advisor of AAM, who is also a distinguished former archer and archery judge. War Nongbri's insights into the sport's evolution were particularly enlightening. She announced that the Senior National Archery Championship will be held in the state later this year, which will serve as a test event for the National Games. This announcement is significant, as it positions as a key player in the national archery scene and offers local athletes a chance to compete at a higher level.

In her speech, War Nongbri provided a brief historical overview of archery, noting its importance to human survival for over 50,000 years, particularly among indigenous communities. Today, archery is not only a means of recreation but also a competitive sport that has gained international recognition. Modern archery began to take shape in the early 20th century, culminating in its recognition by the International Olympic Committee in the 1960s. This historical context underscores the sport's rich heritage and its transformation into a respected athletic discipline.

War Nongbri also paid tribute to pioneers like the late Woodward Sohliya, who played a crucial role in the development of modern archery in India, particularly in formulating the Indian Round. Her acknowledgment of these historical figures serves to inspire current and future generations of archers, reminding them of the legacy they are part of.

“After tireless striving, we stand at a much more comfortable place now,” War Nongbri stated, attributing the current progress in archery to the support from the state’s leadership, including the Chief Minister and the Sports Minister. She highlighted the investments made in terms of quality coaches, performance directors, and equipment, all aimed at preparing athletes for the upcoming National Games. The commitment from the government and sports associations reflects a broader strategy to elevate the standards of sports in .

War Nongbri concluded her address with a promise to the athletes, stating, “We promise not to leave any stone unturned to reach the pinnacles of glory that every archer seeks.” This statement encapsulates the determination and ambition that characterize the archery community in , as they strive to achieve excellence and bring home accolades that will further enhance the state's reputation in the sporting arena.

As the State Archery Championship 2026 unfolds, it not only serves as a platform for competition but also as a celebration of the sport's heritage and future potential in . The event is expected to foster camaraderie among the participants, promote sportsmanship, and inspire young archers to pursue their dreams with vigor and dedication. The outcomes of this championship may also influence the trajectory of archery in the region, paving the way for more structured training programs and greater participation at national and international levels.