The much-anticipated Alempang Futsal Turf was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, March 11 at Alempang Ward, Mokokchung. The event was graced by Col. Gaurav Singh, SC, SM, Commanding Officer of the 164 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Naga, as the Special Guest.
Col. Gaurav Singh, in his speech, informed that the turf was built under the Indian Army’s Operation Sadbhavana. He stated that the project was made possible after Nagaland’s Advisor for Water Resources, Tongpang Ozukum, approached him in November last year.
He described this as a humble beginning, attributing it to God’s plan. “It’s a blessing to Alempang Ward,” he remarked, adding that the initiative would also benefit the adjacent wards of Tongdentsuyong, Alempang, and Sungkomen, as well as the town as a whole.
Singh stated that the turf marks the actual utilization of the Ladybird School Society land, expressing hope that the society would greatly benefit from this development. He remarked, “There is no dearth of talent in the district, especially in sports; however, it is the lack of infrastructure that poses a major challenge,” emphasizing the potential for nurturing promising sportspersons.
He encouraged the youth to stay away from intoxicating habits and instead contribute positively to society. Singh expressed hope that the initiative would help nurture talented sportspersons in the future.
As part of Operation Sadbhavana, the initiative aims to improve infrastructure and enhance the quality of life in remote areas. He also mentioned that two more projects are underway in Chakpa village and Yaongyimti New.
Operation Sadbhavana is undertaken by the Indian Army to uplift the local population. The projects are designed to address local aspirations by meeting basic needs such as healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and community engagement.
Singh further highlighted that the 164 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Naga is the only unit in the Indian Army that comprises personnel from all 17 recognized tribes of Nagaland, including the recently recognized tribe ‘Tikhir’ . “Since 2006, our unit has been working to bridge the gap between security forces and the people while making meaningful contributions to society,” he said.
Singh appreciated the community’s initiative and assured continued support from the army in community development activities.
Tongpang Ozukum, Advisor for Water Resources, Government of Nagaland, in his address, expressed deep appreciation for Col. Gaurav Singh and the Indian Army for making the Futsal ground a reality under Operation Sadbhavana.
He acknowledged Col. Singh’s personal efforts in facilitating the project, stating, “ and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to him on behalf of the community.”
Ozukum also revealed that Alempang Ward was initially not included in the list of districts receiving a futsal turf. However, through the intervention and sincere efforts of Col. Singh, the project was made possible and he expressed profound gratitude for this initiative.
Ozukum shared how the project came into being and appreciated everyone involved in transforming it into reality for the people of Angetyongpang and its neighboring wards.
Highlighting the importance of the facility, Ozukum expressed hope that it would encourage the community to adopt a healthy and purposeful lifestyle. “Today, we have become more health-conscious, and I hope this ground will help our people, especially the younger generation, engage in healthy and meaningful activities,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged the Chubatemstü Link Road leading to the turf, which has been maintained to provide smooth access to the facility. He emphasized the need for further improvement of the road and surrounding infrastructure to ensure better convenience during travel.
Ozukum took a moment to express his gratitude to the landowners, Ladybird School Society for providing the space, as well as the project in-charge for his dedicated efforts in overseeing the construction.
“This ground is not only for our ward but also for the neighboring wards. I hope this facility will inspire many young sportspersons to emerge from our district, and I am confident that with continued collaboration, we will see more positive development in our community,” he concluded.
In a short speech, Imchanaro expressed her heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing the importance of sports infrastructure in the community. Speaking on behalf of Ladybird School Society, the landowner mentioned that the society had purchased the plot of land years back specifically for the development of sports infrastructure for Ladybird School students and for the Alempang community in general with the objective and vision to train and discipline the upcoming young students through active participation in games and sports. In addition, the society has the goal to provide the land as a recreational sports centre for the youth of Mokokchung District.
“We are witnessing this inauguration which otherwise would still have been a forest. Our gratitude to Col. Gaurav Singh and all community leaders for making this dream a reality. We hope that this futsal turf will serve as a platform to promote games, sports, and community engagement,” the landowner stated. He also expressed gratitude towards Tongpang Ozukum, Advisor of Water Resources and the Alempang Ward Executive Council for their persistent efforts in materializing the project.
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The futsal turf was completed at an estimated cost of Rs 40 lakh which has been constructed on land belonging to the Lady Bird School Society.
Maongtula, Councillor of Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC), in her welcome address, expressed her joy and gratitude for the inauguration of the Alempang Futsal Turf. She emphasized that the turf is not just a playground but a platform of opportunity and inspiration for the youth of the community.
She acknowledged the generous contributions and support from Col. Gaurav Singh and Tongpang Ozukum, stating that their efforts have brought this project to fruition. Maongtula encouraged the youth to make the best use of the facility
Addressing the parents and elders, she urged them to motivate their children to prioritize outdoor activities, minimizing distractions from gadgets. She further expressed hope that the facility would nurture future champions and strengthen the unity of the community.
Lemasashi, Chairman of Alempang Ward Yimden, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing deep appreciation to all individuals and stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the futsal turf. Rev. Ngangnen Lkr, Pastor of Alempang Baptist Church pronounced the dedicatory prayer.
The grand opening was officially marked by the Special Guest with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event concluded with an exhibition match between the Alempang Youth Association and the Alempang Ward Council.
