Rank in Judo are ranked in ascending numerical order. The ninth ("kudan") and tenth degree black belt ("jūdan") and, theoretically, those higher, have no formal requirements. Only 15 individuals have been promoted to the rank of Kōdōkan 10th dan. On January 6, 2006, three individuals were promoted to this rank simultaneously: Daigo Toshirō, Ichirō Abe, and Ōsawa Yoshimi. This is the most ever at the same time, and the first in 22 years. No one has ever been promoted to a rank higher than 10th "dan", but in theory the Judo rank system is not limited to 10 degrees of black belt. The
Judo in India the training needs of a large and growing judo community. Mr. Takashi Ogata came to India on a welcome visit in 1976, and initiated a professional course in judo at NS NIS, Patiala. Another honorable Japanese judo guru Mr. Morio Suganami graced the judo community in India by his 1979 visit, and gave tips and laid some action plans for the promotion of judo in India. The contribution of Indian gentlemen such as Mr. Khaniwale, Dr. Pisolkar and Mr. N.T. Bangera to the sport of judo is exemplary and memorable. Indian minister and president of JFI, Mr. Jagdish Tytler and