Gangtok, April 3 (IPR): The 1st State-Level Kho-Kho Championship 2026, organised by the Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, was inaugurated today at Khel Gaon, Reshithang, by the Governor of Sikkim, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, who attended the event as the Chief Guest.
Among those present on the occasion were Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Culture Departments, Mr GT Dhungel, MLA-cum-Advisor, Food and Civil Supplies and Urban Development Departments, Mr Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, MLA-cum-Advisor, Rural Development Department, Ms Kala Rai, Patron-cum-Advisor (Ayush), Mr AK Ghatani, along with Advisors, Chairpersons, Panchayat Members, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Ms Yangchen D Tamang, Managing Director of the State Bank of Sikkim, Mr Phurba Wangdi Bhutia, members of the Sikkim Women Commission, senior officials of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, office bearers of the Sikkim Olympic Association and the Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, as well as other dignitaries, coaches, athletes and students.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mr BK Roka (Retd. DIG), President of the Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, followed by the official declaration of the championship open by the Governor.
A march past and oath-taking ceremony marked the formal opening of the championship, reflecting the spirit of discipline, unity and sportsmanship among the participating teams. A cultural presentation also added colour and vibrancy to the inaugural programme.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor expressed happiness at being part of what he described as a historic sporting occasion for the State. He said it was a matter of great joy to witness enthusiastic participation of children in sports at such a young age and remarked that seeing young children actively taking part in Kho-Kho brought him immense happiness and satisfaction.
Referring to the impact of the Khelo India initiative, the Governor observed that sports are steadily reaching every corner of the country, including villages and remote areas, and that more children are now developing interest in various sporting disciplines. He appreciated the efforts of the organisers and public representatives in promoting sports and creating a meaningful platform for young talent.
Highlighting the significance of Kho-Kho, the Governor said it was heartening to see a traditional Indian sport, which had gradually lost prominence over the years, being revived and promoted in such a grand manner in Sikkim. He congratulated the Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, the organising committee, participating athletes and all stakeholders for successfully organising the championship.
Recalling his own childhood, the Governor shared that he too had played Kho-Kho while growing up. He said the sport enhances agility, alertness, coordination and overall physical fitness, and encouraged the young players to continue participating in sports with dedication, discipline and a spirit of sportsmanship.
The Governor also extended his best wishes to all the participating teams and students and expressed hope that the championship would further strengthen the sporting culture in the State.
Following the inaugural ceremony, the championship matches commenced with enthusiastic participation from players in different categories. As many as 24 school teams from across Sikkim are participating in the championship, which will continue till April 5, 2026.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr RB Biswakarma, Director, Sports and Youth Affairs Department.
Report from DIO-GANGTOK