Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner, Government of Nagaland, Y Kikheto Sema, IAS, graced the 1st edition of the Kohima Sumi Badminton Tournament as the Patron at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Kohima, on July 18.
Addressing the participants, he expressed happiness over the successful organisation of the tournament and was particularly encouraged to see senior citizens participating alongside the younger generation. He said sports provide a platform where age becomes secondary, as every participant deserves equal respect and recognition.
Emphasizing the importance of dedication and discipline, he noted that just as singers devote countless hours to perfecting their craft to bring joy to people, sportspersons also invest immense time and effort in training to excel in their respective fields. He therefore urged everyone to respect athletes and called upon the players to remain humble and uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship throughout the competition.
He also shared a brief history of the origin of badminton, describing it as a friendly, disciplined and less controversial sport that can be played both indoors and outdoors with simple rules. He said badminton not only promotes physical fitness but also instills discipline, adding that the participants were among the fittest and most disciplined members of the Sumi community residing in Kohima.
Highlighting the sporting strengths of the region, he observed that people from the Northeast, particularly Nagas and Asians in general, have consistently excelled in sports such as badminton, table tennis, archery, sepak takraw and boxing along with others major sports. He encouraged greater emphasis on promoting and nurturing these disciplines, considering the region’s natural aptitude for them.
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Speaking on the contribution of the Sumi community to Kohima, he recalled that the Sumis, particularly the Aphuyemi Sumis from Pughoboto, were among the earliest settlers from other tribes in Kohima town. He acknowledged their significant role in the development of Kohima, including their contribution to the construction of important landmarks such as the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and the Kohima Local Ground and other significant contributions.
Calling upon the Sumi community in Kohima to be ambassadors of the community, he urged them to uphold a strong sense of belonging while living in the state capital, promote peaceful coexistence with the Angami community and continue fostering mutual respect and harmony.
Concluding his address, he wished the tournament every success and expressed hope that it would continue to grow into a larger and more prestigious sporting event in the years to come.
The tournament is being organised by the Kohima Sumi Badminton Enthusiasts, a group of badminton lovers from the Sumi community residing in Kohima. The inaugural edition has attracted 26 participants. The oldest participant in the tournament is 78 years old, while the youngest is 26, highlighting the event’s unique appeal across generations and its spirit of inclusivity.
