Shillong, April 10: Meghalaya’s athletes delivered an outstanding performance at the First Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, held in Chhattisgarh from March 25 to April 3, securing a total of two gold and seven bronze medals across multiple disciplines, including archery, wrestling, swimming, athletics, and weightlifting.
Among the standout performers, Donkupar L. Shadap from Nongpoh, Ri-Bhoi, clinched a gold medal in the Compound Men’s Archery event. Reflecting on his journey, he credited years of dedicated practice under head coach Mim Bahadur Gurung and compound coach Nandkishore. He shared that his passion for archery began at the age of five, inspired by watching competitions in his village.
Shadap also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for enhancing sports infrastructure, particularly by providing access to high-quality archery equipment, which he noted is otherwise expensive.
Kate Diamond Lyngdoh from Mawlai Kynton Massar, Shillong, also secured gold in the Compound Women’s Archery category. Balancing academics and sports, she stated her ambition to win a medal at the upcoming National Games on home soil. She acknowledged government support in providing equipment and covering travel expenses.
Meanwhile, Juh Pa U Juh Nongtdu from Nartiang, West Jaintia Hills, who won a bronze medal in the 60 kg Greco-Roman wrestling category, is currently training for the 39th National Games 2027 to be hosted in Meghalaya. He emphasised that dedication and hard work are key to achieving success at higher levels.
President of the Wrestling Association of Meghalaya, Isaiah Kharmawphlang, highlighted that athletes underwent rigorous training with access to international-level coaching. He expressed optimism that more youth would take up sports, noting improved support from the state government compared to earlier years when athletes often bore expenses themselves.
With over 300 sports infrastructure facilities developed and more than 35,000 participants in state tournaments, Meghalaya is steadily emerging as a strong hub for sports. Officials believe that the recent achievements will further strengthen the state’s sporting ecosystem and prepare athletes for national and international competitions.
