Shillong, Sept 26: The Meghalaya Arm Wrestling Association (MAWA) has announced that the Meghalaya State Open Arm Wrestling 2025 will be held in Shillong later this month, serving as a grassroots scouting platform to identify and prepare athletes for the 39th National Games scheduled in Meghalaya in 2027.
Organised in collaboration with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, the Sports Development Cell of Shillong College, the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), and managed by Treilang Welfare Society, the event will also receive security support from the Bouncer Association of Meghalaya.
The weigh-in for participants is scheduled on September 27 at Shillong College, which will also host all matches. Competitions will run from September 29 to October 4 across various categories:
The competitions will begin on September 29 with the Inter School and College (Right Hand) category, followed by the Inter School and College (Left Hand) on September 30.
On October 1, the Inter Gym contests (Both Hands) will be held, while the Inter Government Departments (Both Hands) will take place on October 2. The Inter District (Right Hand) event is scheduled for October 3, and the tournament will conclude on October 4 with the Inter District (Left Hand) category.
Participation will be limited to Meghalaya residents. Competitors must present valid documents such as Aadhaar, EPIC, birth certificate, or official IDs from schools, colleges, or workplaces. The tournament will only feature senior-level categories.
In addition to promoting the sport, the event will also carry a social message. Alongside the bouts, MACS will conduct an HIV/AIDS awareness programme aimed at educating the public on prevention, early testing, and treatment.
The campaign seeks to reduce stigma, promote safe practices, and empower the youth and wider community to make informed lifestyle choices.
Through this combined initiative, MAWA and its partners hope to both nurture athletic talent and encourage a healthier, more aware society in Meghalaya.
