The inauguration of 24th NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy 2024 was held at 14 September at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima organised by the Angami Students’ Union.
Earlier The day started with laying of Wreaths & Hoisting of Flag at NSF Martyrs’ Park in the morning.
Yanthungo Patton, Deputy Chief Minister, in his speech, stated that the theme “Goal for Peace” resonates deeply with the collective aspirations and the vision for their future. He said that in every goal scored, we will see the potential for achieving the shared objectives and in every save made, one will witness the protection of common interests and in every pass completed, one will observe the cooperation that is essential for our progress.
“These actions on the football field mirror the teamwork, strategy, and mutual support that we need in our society to build lasting peace,” he stated.
Patton reminded that the young athletes are the leaders of tomorrow and that they are the ambassadors of peace, torchbearers of unity, and champions of a better future. He said that the friendships they forge, the respect they show to their opponents and the sportsmanship you display in this tournament will have ripple effects far beyond this stadium.
The Deputy CM mentioned that they have the power to inspire, to change perceptions and to build bridges that can last a lifetime. “Remember, the true measure of your success will not just be in the goals you score but in the impact you make on the hearts and minds of those around you,” he said.
Further, Patton stated that as this tournament is kicked off, they should take a moment to remember and honour the sacrifices of the Martyrs and all those who have given their lives for our people. He added that their memory serves as a constant reminder of the immeasurable value of peace.
It was a privilege to attend the inaugural programme of the 24th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy in Kohima today. I had the honour of declaring this prestigious and one of the state’s biggest sporting events open as well as sharing my thoughts. I wish all the participating teams the… pic.twitter.com/me1QI6eZbl
— Yanthungo Patton (@YanthungoPatton) September 14, 2024
Patton highlighted that we have our share of disagreements, historical grievances, and obstacles to overcome but an event like this remind us of what we can achieve when we come together. “They show us that our shared hopes for peace, progress, and prosperity are far stronger than the forces that seek to divide us,” he added.
Furthermore, Patton mentioned that the government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, remains committed to support initiatives that promote peace, unity, and development. He said that the state government recognizes the power of sports and culture and that it will continue to invest in the youth, artists, and in events that bring the communities together. He said the government is fully committed to nurturing athletic talent and creating a robust sports infrastructure that will pave the way for our youth to excel on national and international stages.
“I am filled with immense pride to mention the recent extraordinary achievement of one of our own – Hokato Hotozhe Sema who won the bronze medal in shot-put F-57 category at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris, becoming the first from Nagaland to accomplish such an incredible achievement,” Patton stated. He also urged all participants to compete with passion, skill, and determination but also with respect, fairness and a spirit of brotherhood. Let the spirit of sportsmanship prevail on the field and may the best team win, the Deputy CM said in conclusion.
The program was earlier blessed with Invocation by Razouvolie Üsou, Pastor, Chedema Baptist Church. The Welcome Address was pronounced by Khriesamhalie David Mere, President, Angami Students’ Union and Tribute Song was sang by Vidisenuo Belho & Vivonuo Belho. Medovi Rhi, President, Naga Students’ Federation also gave the solitary message. Metebo-o Sote, Secretary, Games & Sports, ASU led the oath taking.
