Sportspersons in Nagaland today joined in celebrating the National Sports Day in a programme organised by Nagaland Department of Youth Resources & Sports (YRS) at Indira Gandhi Stadium Hall ‘B, Kohima.
Speaking at the event as the special guest, Minister for Power, Parliamentary Affairs K.G Kenye said, Nagaland being a small state have shown its prowess in the field of sports and expressed hope to continue to create significance in this field. He also noted that there are many who can excel still more, however due to lack of resources and infrastructure, the state has been unable to tap the potential of the youth. This, he said, the state government have failed to take up in a serious manner, adding that fund constraint is one area where the government could not do much.
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Kenye however assured that the state is fast developing and that the government is looking for ways and means to generate funds. The Minister also said, under the leadership of the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, sports have taken a strive, wherein the government is taking all possible steps to give good infrastructures and amenities. Kenye further hoped that the department will be a focal area in the next plan of the state government and in the subsequent coming years.
YRS Advisor S. Keoshu Yimkhiung reminded the awardees to be an inspiration for the upcoming sports stars of Nagaland. Yimkhiung also called upon the department to renew its commitment to provide best opportunities, facilities and support the aspiring sportspersons of the state.
On the occasion of National Sports Day, altogether 391 meritorious sportspersons were awarded cash prizes in various sports categories/disciplines.
Recipients of State Awards for coaches were: Holshe Khrieo, Junior State Coach (Sepaktakraw); Visabiu Peseyie, Junior State Coach (Taekwondo); Mughato Aye, Sports Coach (Football); C Tongjen Thai, Sports Coach (Athletics) and Virender Kumar, Head Coach (Wrestling).
During the National Sports Day event, cash awards were bestowed upon meritorious athletes for their achievements spanning from 2020 to 2022. The recognition encompassed various disciplines, including the 61st Edition of Subroto International Cup Football (Junior Boys U-17), 2nd North East Olympic Games, Taekwondo, Archery, Wrestling, Boxing, Athletics, Weightlifting, and more. Winners of notable events such as the 23rd, 24th & 25th Sub Junior National Sepaktakraw, 31st Senior National Sepaktakraw Championship, and various other championships were part of the award ceremony.
