Gangtok, April 3: The 1st State-Level Kho-Kho Championship 2026, organised by the Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, was inaugurated on Friday at Khel Gaon, Reshithang, by the Governor of Sikkim, Om Prakash Mathur, who attended as the Chief Guest.

The inauguration was attended by Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Culture Departments, GT Dhungel; MLA-cum-Advisor, Food and Civil Supplies and Urban Development Departments, Delay Namgyal Barfungpa; MLA-cum-Advisor, Rural Development Department, Kala Rai; Patron-cum-Advisor (Ayush), AK Ghatani; Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Yangchen D Tamang; Managing Director of the State Bank of Sikkim, Phurba Wangdi Bhutia; members of the Sikkim Women Commission; officials from the Sports and Youth Affairs Department; and representatives of the Sikkim Olympic Association and Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, along with coaches, athletes, and students.

The programme began with a welcome address by BK Roka, President of the Sikkim Kho-Kho Association, followed by the Governor officially declaring the championship open. The inauguration included a march past, oath-taking ceremony, and a cultural presentation.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor highlighted the revival of Kho-Kho in Sikkim and the importance of sports in enhancing agility, coordination, and fitness among children. He noted that initiatives like Khelo India are helping to promote sports even in remote areas. Recalling his own childhood experience with Kho-Kho, he encouraged young athletes to continue participating with dedication and sportsmanship.

Following the inauguration, the championship matches commenced, featuring 24 school teams from across Sikkim. The tournament will continue until April 5, 2026.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by RB Biswakarma, Director of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department.