Nagaland women team to compete in 38th National Tug of War Championship

DIMAPUR — Under the aegis of the Nagaland Tug of War Association (NTWA), eight women athletes along with two officials left for the 38th National Tug of War Championship (senior women and mixed 4+4) scheduled at Shirdi, Maharashtra, from August 22 to the 25th.

According to a press statement issued by team manager Kuzhovesa Soho, the eight women athletes include Vikehenuo Zumvu (captain), Vekhonielu Curhah, Haizuyile, Thejanienuo Thevo, Sezolu Luruo, Medongunuo Thevo, Neivi Metha, and Keneithonuo Sanchu. The team will be led by Soho and team coach Vemele Thingo.

The NTWA, after beginning its functioning in mid-2023, participated for the first time in the National Tug of War Championship in September 2023 at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, where it won a silver medal in the mixed category. It also won silver in the catchweight category in February 2025 at Palghar, Maharashtra.

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The Nagaland women’s team is participating in this championship for the first time. Eight male athletes from the NTWA are also participating in the World Outdoor Tug of War Championship under the aegis of the Tug of War Federation of India (TWFI), scheduled at Nottingham, England, from September 4 to the 7th.

In a short send-off ceremony for the Nagaland women’s team, held at the NTWA office, President Dr. Vekho Swuro conveyed the association’s best wishes to the team and urged the athletes to uphold the sports spirit with humility and enthusiasm. He expressed hope that the NTWA women pullers will return home with medals.

Swuro also expressed his indebtedness to the Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, for the sponsorship of the team and conveyed gratitude for his support in all aspects of the NTWA’s pursuits. He said that under the leadership of Rio, youths from Nagaland are progressing well and moving towards excellence.

Swuro further thanked the 13th Assam Rifles, Kohima Commandant Col. Tarun Rana, for providing all logistic support since assuming command. Since June 2025, Rana has been providing grounds for the NTWA athletes for their constant training, as well as meeting the needs of the athletes and the association. He is also part of the association, claimed Swuro.

The team is expected to return to Dimapur by the morning of August 27.