With the aim of strengthening partnerships in sports development, industrial collaboration, and cultural engagement, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio arrived at Jindal Vijayanagar Airport, Karnataka, on a two-day official visit hosted by the JSW Group.

Upon arrival, Rio and his delegation were warmly received by representatives of JSW and the leadership of the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS).

Accompanying the Chief Minister were key dignitaries from Nagaland, including Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), who also serves as Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India. Other members of the delegation include Rusemtong Longkumer, PRO to the Chief Minister; Kechangulie Rio, President of the Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA); Benei M Lamthiu, Chairman of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) and MLA; Neibou Sekhose, Executive Member of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and President of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA); Kethosituo Sekhose, Director of Youth Resources and Sports (DYRS); Kuputo Shohe, Chairman of the Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation (NSMDC) and Joint Secretary of the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA); and V. Hibo, OSD (Security).

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During the visit, the delegation is scheduled to interact with JSW leadership and observe ongoing training of Nagaland athletes at IIS. They will also engage with Olympians and elite athletes based at the sports institute. The itinerary includes tours of JSW’s prominent industrial and cultural facilities, such as the Vijayanagar Steel Plant and Kaladham art village.

A key highlight of the visit will be strategic discussions with JSW and IIS on future developmental partnerships, sports collaborations, art residencies, and cultural initiatives aimed at enriching opportunities for the youth of Nagaland.

The Chief Minister is also expected to interact with the Nagaland Super League (NSL) youth team, which is currently undergoing a high-performance training programme at IIS. As part of the visit, the team will play friendly matches, including a much-anticipated game against Bengaluru FC on June 28.

This official visit marks a significant step toward deepening collaboration between Nagaland and JSW Group, with a common vision of youth empowerment, excellence in sports, and sustainable development.