Shillong, March 10: The East Khasi Hills District Basketball Association, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Basketball Association, on Tuesday organised the 2nd State Junior Inter-District Basketball Championship 2026 at Raid Laban College.

The championship was inaugurated by Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai as the Chief Guest, while Ampareen Lyngdoh attended the event as the Guest of Honour.

Addressing the gathering, Shullai extended his best wishes to the boys and girls from various districts participating in the tournament. Recalling his own involvement in sports, he said that both he and Lyngdoh were once active sportspersons. The minister also shared that he had previously represented the Laban Sports Club football team.

Highlighting the importance of education alongside sports, Shullai said that education is not merely preparation for life but life itself. He also praised teachers, describing them as “candles that consume themselves to give light to others.”

The minister apologised for not being able to stay until the conclusion of the programme due to official commitments but conveyed his blessings and best wishes to all participating teams.

Speaking on the occasion, Lyngdoh said that Meghalaya is preparing to host the National Games of India and emphasised that grassroots tournaments such as the junior inter-district championship play an important role in promoting sports like basketball across the state.

She noted that basketball continues to be widely loved across communities and age groups and that initiatives like this tournament are crucial for strengthening the sport’s foundation.

Lyngdoh also described the championship as an important step for the growth of basketball in the state, noting that the sport has faced several challenges over the years. She further thanked coaches and officials of the Meghalaya Basketball Association and the district association for their commitment to organising the tournament and nurturing young sporting talent.