The 44th AKTM Sports Meet begins at Kobulong, Mokokchung, with 600 delegates competing in various disciplines including the newly introduced air-rifle shooting.
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KOBULONG — The 44th Asetkong Kaketshir Telongjem Mungdang (AKTM)–Asetkong Students' Conference–Sports Meet commenced at the Kobulong EAC headquarters in Mokokchung district on Wednesday.
Over 600 delegates representing six units, namely Sungratsu, Mopungchuket, Chami, Kobulong, Longpa, and Longjang, are participating in the three-day event, which will feature tug-of-war, football, air-rifle shooting, basketball, and table tennis.
The event was kicked off by Temsuwangshi Jamir, assistant manager (Research and Planning), Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), as the chief sports patron.
In his address, Jamir stated that while sports are often associated with medals and triumphs, their true essence lies in fostering unity and peace among people. Across history and cultures worldwide, sports have united communities, transcending barriers of language, tribe, and origin, he said.
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He also stated that the ancient Olympic Games, dating back over 2,500 years, were more than mere competitions of physical prowess, as they were occasions where adversaries forged friendships and celebrated harmony.
He pointed out that genuine sportsmanship extends beyond victory. It encompasses integrity, honour, and character, competing fairly, supporting those who stumble, and showing respect to opponents, he said, adding that through sports, individuals develop discipline, teamwork, resilience, and the strength to persevere after every defeat.
Highlighting Nagaland’s proud legacy, Jamir recalled Dr. Talimeren Ao, whose name inspires every Naga. As captain of independent India’s first Olympic football team in 1948, he represented the nation with dignity during a formative period, demonstrating that a sportsperson can also embody leadership, compassion, and national pride.
Jamir shared the story of his niece, Lenien Jamir, daughter of Amba. Overcoming limited resources and numerous obstacles, Lenien pursued tennis with unfailing determination. Her hard work, passion, and resilience led to national recognition and ultimately earned her an athletic scholarship to study and compete in tennis at Monmouth University in the United States.
Addressing the young participants, he urged them to allow sports to mould their character, instilling resilience, discipline, teamwork, and humility. He encouraged them to aim not just for victories on the field but to serve their families, communities, and nation.
“Be educated, self-sustained, and proud ambassadors of Nagaland. The spirit you cultivate here will guide you far beyond these grounds,” he said.
Meyisanger Lemtur, vice president of the Nagaland Football Association, also spoke, advising participants to take sports seriously, focus on a single discipline, and strive toward becoming professional athletes.
The sports meet is being conducted under the supervision of licensed judges, umpires, and referees from various disciplines. Notably, air-rifle shooting has been introduced as a new event this year, overseen by S Merang Jamir, ISSF Judge and coach and governing body member of the National Rifles Association of India, along with Chubatoshi from Lady Bird Shooting Academy and other experts.