The 1st sub-Junior Open Badminton Tournament kicked off on March 13 at the Multi-Disciplinary Indoor Stadium, Noklak district. The tournament was organised by the Noklak District Badminton Association.
SDO (Civil) Noklak, Vikhoto Richa, lauded the initiatives taken by the District Badminton Association, stating that noticeable progress has been made within a short span since the new team assumed office.
Addressing the gathering during the badminton tournament, he expressed appreciation for the organizers and encouraged them to continue promoting sports in the district. He noted that more than 130 students had registered for the event, which he described as encouraging for a newly created district facing infrastructure and connectivity challenges.
Richa also highlighted social concerns such as the growing drug menace in the district and acknowledged the efforts of NGOs and organizations including church groups, KMH, KTC, and KSU in addressing the issue.
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He emphasized that sporting activities play an important role in engaging young people constructively and steering them away from social problems.
Encouraging the young players, he urged them to maintain discipline, determination, and perseverance while also taking their studies seriously. He added that participation in sports not only builds character but also helps reduce mobile phone addiction among youth.
He further assured that the district administration, through the District Sports Council under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner, will continue to support such initiatives despite limited funding, and expressed hope that more sporting events will be organized in the district in the future.
Short speeches were also shared by Khiamniungan Students’ Union President Shangchiu and Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam President Chongkoi, who encouraged the players to maintain discipline.
An exhibition match was played between the two youngest players — five-year-old Lililong Sangtam and nine-year-old Pulo Achumi.
