KOHIMA — The first ever state-level inter Khelo India Centre Tournament 2024, culminated with a prize distribution ceremony at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on Friday.
The four-day tournament witnessed participants from across Nagaland competing in three disciplines -- table tennis, badminton and archery -- for both boys and girls.
Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose, said that competition for only three disciplines could be held this time but will increase in future.
Expressing happiness over the progress of sports in Nagaland, he said Khelo India has helped athletes to excel and participate at the regional levels.
The state government is providing lot of platforms for sportspersons. For now, it is yet to see the full result but this initiative will be paid off in the near future by winning medals at Olympic level, he said.
Sekhose informed that the department has taken initiative to ensure the athletes from the state do not go empty handed and that it would see to it to bring about change by way of inculcating sports in academic curriculum.
Also speaking at the event, Limawabang Jamir, Secretary of Food and President of Nagaland Civil Service Association, observed that the Khelo India movement has had a positive impact on sportspersons in the state, contributing to the development of sporting talent and the overall growth of sports culture.
The movement helped identify promising young athletes at the grassroots level state besides improving sports infrastructure, better trainings to the athletes, exposure and financial support to sportspersons. It also enhanced opportunities and support for female athletes, encouraging them to pursue sports careers and excel in their chosen disciplines, it was informed.
Asserting that lessons learned on the field will serve them well in all aspects of life, Jamir encouraged the participants to continue promoting sports and fitness as integral components of national identity.
Department officials and guests gave away the medals and certificates to the winners.