Mingkeng Osik
PASIGHAT : Sixteen-year-old David Chetri of East Siang district brought laurels to Arunachal Pradesh by winning a bronze medal in the Junior Male Individual Kata event at the 10th Cadet, Junior, Under-21 and Senior South Asian Karate Championship and the 2nd South Asian Karate Cup 2026, held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 15 to 19.
A Class XII student, David represented India in the Junior (16-17 years) category and secured a podium finish against some of South Asia’s top karate athletes, marking a significant achievement for both East Siang district and Arunachal Pradesh.
Describing the championship as a valuable learning experience, David said he was delighted to bring an international medal to the state.
“The experience was really good. I am happy to bring an international medal to East Siang District and Arunachal Pradesh. The level of competition was completely different from the state and national championships. Everyone expected me to perform well, and I am glad that my result came out well. I will continue working hard and aim to win a gold medal for India in the future,” he said.
David credited East Siang District Karate-Do Association (ESDKA) President Advocate Vijay Mize and his coach and father Ajay Chetri for their constant guidance and encouragement throughout his journey.
Congratulating his son, Ajay Chetri described David as a sincere, disciplined and dedicated karateka and expressed confidence that he would continue to excel and one day win a gold medal for India.
He also thanked Pasighat East MLA Tapi Darang for extending financial assistance and continuous encouragement that enabled David to participate in the international championship. He acknowledged the support of the East Siang District Olympic Association, particularly its President Tamat Gamoh and Secretary Advocate Vijay Mize, as well as parents of karate students, well-wishers and supporters.
The ESDKA said David’s achievement has brought immense pride to the district and would inspire more young athletes to pursue karate at higher levels. The association organised a reception for the medal winner on Monday to celebrate his accomplishment.
The ESDKA is affiliated with the Karate India Organisation (KIO), which is recognised by the Asian Karate Federation and the World Karate Federation. David represented India through this recognised system at the South Asian championship in Dhaka.
