Mokokchung Free Martial Arts Summer Camp and Tournament concludes

MOKOKCHUNG — The Mokokchung District Martial Arts Association (MDMAA) concluded its Free Martial Arts Summer Coaching Camp and Tournament at the Multipurpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on July 5.

Two hundred nineteen participants completed the intensive two-week training programme, which had commenced on June 23.

The camp was open to individuals aged five and above and offered training in six martial arts disciplines—Kung Fu, Wushu, Karate, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Judo—under instructors from MDMAA.

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The camp was led by instructors Imyuangdang Leo (Karate), Toshimeren (Kung Fu), Metlesh (Muay Thai), and Bendangakum, 4th DAN - NKMAA (Wushu and Judo).

The training focused not only on martial arts techniques but also on values such as humility, respect, and focus, equipping participants for personal growth and societal contribution, said an instructor.

Imkumniba Kichu, Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC) councillor for Youth Resources and Sports, attended the closing ceremony as guest of honour.

He praised the MDMAA for making martial arts accessible at the grassroots level through free training, describing it as a meaningful and empowering initiative that goes beyond physical practice to instil discipline and self-control.

He urged participants to embrace challenges and develop confidence, describing martial artists as “shape shifters and tomorrow makers”. Quoting Bruce Lee, he encouraged them to adapt what is useful, reject what is useless, and add what is specifically their own.

Kichu also highlighted the broader impact of martial arts, urging youths to avoid intoxication and draw inspiration from Nagaland’s Faith In Action, which set a world record for the highest martial arts kick on India’s Got Talent on July 5, 2023.

He expressed the view that martial arts can open pathways to employment and national or international recognition, encouraging participants to pursue their training with dedication.

The closing ceremony featured the distribution of medals and certificates across various age categories.

Meanwhile, Rongsentoshi Jamir, president of MDMAA, announced that regular martial arts classes will commence soon to sustain the momentum. He also revealed plans for an All-Nagaland Martial Arts Open Championship in December 2025, signalling MDMAA’s commitment to promoting martial arts statewide.

Jamir said the positive response from participants and parents was overwhelming, and they aim to build on this success. For enrolment and class details, he directed interested individuals to contact 8798437988.

Dr. Sarundi Walling, Assistant Chief Technical Officer at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), spoke on behalf of the parents, commending MDMAA and the instructors for their dedication.

He encouraged participants to pursue martial arts with discipline, noting its potential to unlock opportunities for employment and competitive participation at higher levels. He described the camp as a stepping stone for youth to excel and represent Mokokchung and Nagaland proudly.