Manipur CM inaugurates 2 sports facilities, extends wishes to contingent for North East Games

IMPHAL — Manipur has faced various challenges in different phases but solution comes with collective efforts, said Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Friday while reiterating the government’s firm stand to protect the integrity of Manipur despite elements trying to distort the state's integrity.

He was speaking at the inaugural function of Mini Sports Complex at Akampat SEYO Club Ground in Imphal East district costing INR 20 crore and Football Field with RCC Gallery at Chajing in Imphal West District costing INR 2.08 crore under Khelo India scheme.

While maintaining that the state is faced with a difficult time due to the unprecedented conflict, he said the government has been working hard to bring a solution and pave the way for resettlement of affected people.

He also assured to construct a gallery and boundary wall around the Hockey Stadium at the Mini Sports Complex at Akampat.

About the football field at Chajing, he said that the state government would try to construct a VIP gallery.

Also speaking at the event attended by several legislators and officials, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam said that the state government has taken up various development works in the field of games and sports, recognising the contribution of players from the state who brought laurels to the country.

He also lauded the CM for his concern on the sports sector.

On North East Games 2024

Speaking at another programme held at the CM’s secretariat in Imphal, for Manipur state contingent participating in the 3rd North East Games 2024 in Nagaland, Biren urged the athletes to maintain discipline. ‘We can achieve our goal if we try hard,’ he said.

Manipur is sending a 338 strong contingent, including 19 officials for the 3rd North East Games 2024 to be held at Nagaland from March 18 to the 23rd.

Athletes from eight North-eastern states will compete in 15 different disciplines including archery, athletic, badminton, basketball, boxing, football, lawn tennis, pencak silat, sepaktakraw, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, belt wrestling, wrestling and wushu.

The CM also lauded the athletes for upholding professionalism even during the difficult phase and appreciated the officials of Manipur Olympic Association for their effort in grooming young players.

He extended his best wishes to the participating team and expressed hope that the contingent will win the state overall champion for the third time.