Shillong, October 31: Meghalaya is hosting the National Black Belt (BB) and NDIC Gradation Coaching Camp and Examination – East Zone 2026–27 for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the development of judo in the state. Organised by the Meghalaya Judo Association (MJA), the national-level event is being held from October 29 to November 3, 2026, at the Sri Aurobindo Institute of Indian Culture (SAIIC), Bivar Road, Shillong, with approximately 150 judokas, coaches and officials from different states of the East Zone participating.
The opening ceremony was held on October 30, with Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Meghalaya, Isawanda Laloo, IAS, attending as the chief guest. Meghalaya State Olympic Association General Secretary Finely L. Pariat attended as the guest of honour, while Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Commandant Jay Singh was present as the special guest.
One of the major highlights of the event was the presence of Satish Sharma, a 6th Dan Red and White Belt holder, former Indian Judo Team Coach and the pioneer credited with introducing judo in Meghalaya in 1987. Sharma, who currently resides in Uttarakhand, has returned to Meghalaya after nearly four decades to serve as the Chief Examiner for the national-level examination. The programme is also being conducted under the technical guidance and supervision of Banee Brata Das, a 6th Dan Red and White Belt holder and General Secretary of the Judo Federation of India, who is attending as one of the principal examiners.
According to the Meghalaya Judo Association, the coaching camp and examination aim to enhance technical knowledge, strengthen practical judo skills and assess the proficiency of candidates appearing for Black Belt and NDIC gradation in accordance with the prescribed standards of the Judo Federation of India. The association has made extensive arrangements for the participants, including accommodation and meals. Accommodation facilities have been arranged at the Youth Hostel, State Convention Centre and residential rooms available at the event venue.
The MJA stated that hosting the national-level event for the first time in Meghalaya provides an important opportunity for local judokas, coaches and officials to interact with experienced national-level judo experts and gain valuable technical exposure. The association expressed confidence that the event would further promote and strengthen the development of judo in Meghalaya and across the North Eastern Region.
Meanwhile, the Meghalaya Judo Association expressed its gratitude to the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Meghalaya, Judo Federation of India, Meghalaya State Olympic Association, Central Reserve Police Force and other supporting organisations and individuals for their cooperation and support in organising the event.
