DIPHU — The All Assam Karate Championship, jointly organised by the All Assam Karate Association (AAKA) and Karbi Anglong Karate-do Association (KAKA), commenced on Wednesday at the Sarsing Teron Multi-Purpose Sports Complex of the Karbi Anglong Sports Association (KASA), Diphu.
The mega event is being hosted by KASA and will culminate on October 26.
The Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare, Government of Assam, Nandita Garlosa, inaugurated the competition by lighting the inaugural lamp, joined by Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and president of KASA; Diganta Kalita, MLA and president of AAKA; and other MLAs.
Inaugurating the event, the sports minister stated that it is essential to build the spirit of sportsmanship in any competition. She emphasized that not everyone can win; there are winners and losers in every game. She advised those who lose not to feel frustrated, as they can learn valuable lessons from their mistakes. While winning medals is significant, she highlighted that the most important aspect is participation.
The minister noted that more than 300 participants and over 300 officials are involved in the event and expressed her appreciation for the participation of girls.
Garlosa informed the players that Khel Mahara will be starting very soon and encouraged them to enroll for participation. Khel Mahara is organised by the Government of Assam to promote sports in the state.
She urged the players to take back positive experiences when returning to their respective places.
Ronghang, on the occasion, stated that karate has become one of the important sports for promoting self-defence and mentioned that the KAAC is providing free lodging and meals to all players and officials during this four-day sports meet. He also announced that a separate indoor stadium for karate will be constructed.