Tawang, Oct 10: The 5th State Level Archery Championship 2026 commenced today at the Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso High Altitude Sports Stadium, Tawang, bringing together talented archers from across Arunachal Pradesh to showcase their skills, precision and sporting spirit. The five-day championship is being organised with the participation of 13 teams comprising around 100 archers representing various districts and Khelo India Centres across the state. Winners in different categories will earn the opportunity to represent Arunachal Pradesh at the national level.

The championship was inaugurated by Hon'ble MLA Nampong, Laisam Simai, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of the Guest of Honour, Major General Amit Nautiyal, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 5 Mountain Division. Among the dignitaries present were incharge Deputy Commissioner Tawang Rinchin Leta, Deputy Commander Tawang brigade Colonel AK Singh, ZPM Kyidphel Tenzin Monpa,ZPM Mogto PemaTsering  Superintendent of Police, Tawang, Tasi Darang,Vice Chairperson DoKAA Sange Chodup along with other officials, sports enthusiasts and members of the archery fraternity.

Addressing the gathering, Major General Amit Nautiyal, SM, VSM, GOC, 5 Mountain Division, highlighted the strategic, cultural and national significance of Tawang, stating that the district is not merely a beautiful tourist destination but also a symbol of India's frontier strength, rich cultural heritage, valour and national pride. He noted that Tawang reflects the dedication of the Indian Army in safeguarding the nation's borders and the commitment of its people towards nation-building.

He emphasised that sporting events in border regions go beyond competition, providing an important platform to identify and nurture local talent, encourage youth participation and connect aspiring athletes with mainstream sporting opportunities. He also lauded Arunachal Pradesh for establishing a distinct identity in archery, with its talented athletes bringing laurels to the state and the country through commendable performances at national and international competitions.

The GOC further underscored the importance of Military-Civil Fusion, describing it as a strong foundation of Tawang's frontier identity and a catalyst for regional development. He observed that when the Indian Army, civil administration, sports organisations, coaches, parents and young people work together, their collective efforts foster mutual trust, cooperation, stronger social bonds and national unity.

Highlighting the broader significance of military-civil cooperation in a strategically important border district like Tawang, he stated that while the Army safeguards the nation's borders, civil society contributes to nation-building through education, sports, community development and youth empowerment. Such collaborative efforts can transform border regions into vibrant centres of development, talent and opportunity.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest  Laisam Simai called for concerted efforts to promote Tawang as one of the world's most sought-after tourist destinations. Speaking about archery, he observed that the sport has been an inseparable part of tribal traditions, historically used for hunting and other traditional purposes, and is now gaining recognition as a professional sporting discipline.

He expressed confidence that the youth of Arunachal Pradesh have immense potential to bring laurels to the state and the country in archery, provided they receive the right platform, systematic training and sustained encouragement. He also acknowledged the growing progress of Arunachal Pradesh in games and sports under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister  Pema Khandu, whom he described as a keen sports enthusiast and supporter of sportspersons.

Simai appreciated the Indian Army for its continued support and for maintaining cordial relations with local communities through various youth engagement initiatives. He encouraged all participating archers to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their goals, and extended his best wishes for their success in the championship and future competitions.

An important highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the launch of the logo for the upcoming Tawang Music Festival, scheduled to commence on 29 October 2026. The logo was unveiled by the Chief Guest in the presence of other dignitaries, marking another step towards promoting Tawang's cultural identity and tourism potential.

Earlier, in his welcome address, President of the Tawang District Archery Association, Er. Tashi Tsering, expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, participating teams, officials and everyone whose support made the championship possible. He also informed the gathering that the state government has agreed to include the State Level Archery Championship in its annual sports calendar, a significant development for the systematic promotion of archery in Arunachal Pradesh.

The five-day championship will witness archers competing in various categories, offering a valuable opportunity for emerging and established talents to demonstrate their abilities and strengthen the state's presence in the sport.

The championship is expected to provide fresh impetus to archery in Arunachal Pradesh, inspire young athletes and reinforce the importance of sports in youth development, community engagement and national integration. With Tawang serving as the host, the event also highlights the district's growing role as a destination for sporting excellence alongside its rich cultural heritage and strategic importance. (DIPRO)