ITANAGAR, 21 Dec: More than 250 karatekas from 13 districts are taking part in the first ever State Level Karate Championship, being organized here by the Arunachal Pradesh Amateur Karate-Do Association (APAKA).
Inaugurating the championship on Tuesday, Sports Authority of Arunachal (SAA) Chairman Byabang Taj said that such a tournament would provide a platform for the participants to showcase their talent and ability.
“The youths of our state and the Northeast region have vast potential, ability and talent but need special guidance and training and accordingly, infrastructure also needs to be improved,” he said.
Taj added that the state government is giving priority to the sports sector. “Several sports stadiums and other infrastructures are in progress. Once completed, these infrastructures will be utilized for promotion of games and sports in the state,” he said.
“There are 62 sports organizations and associations affiliated to the SAA and we are making every effort to extend all possible support to them,” he added.
Taj emphasized on proper coordination and communication among the sports organizations, the sports department and the SAA.
IMC Deputy Mayor Biri Basang motivated the karatekas to “play in team spirit and maintain discipline.”
Karate India Organization treasurer Matum Bankim Singh highlighted the issues related to karate in the country and appealed to the state government to “resolve the issue of karate organization in the state soon.”
Among others, SAA legal advisor Puto Bui, APAKA president Yarda Niki, organizing chairman Rakom Dugi and organizing secretary John Bagang also spoke.
The karatekas will take part in various categories, including sub-junior, cadet junior, U-21, and senior for both males and females.
