KOHIMA — Cash awards were presented to outstanding sports individuals for the period of 2020-23, commemorating National Sports Day on Tuesday at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima.
Players representing a diverse range of disciplines including sepaktakraw, taekwondo, karate, muaythai, shooting, cross-country running, boxing, weightlifting, athletics, archery, wrestling, and football were acknowledged.
Attending the event, KG Kenye, Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, emphasised that the observance of National Sports Day aligned them with the entire nation, including union territories, as they remembered exceptional sports achievers.
The theme for this year's National Sports Day celebration is "Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society."
The minister expressed enthusiastic participation in commemorating their sportspersons who have brought honor to the state. He acknowledged the abundance of untapped potential in their natural resources, especially in the realm of youth, where sports remain an area where they have yet to harness these resources effectively.
Referring to two Nagaland Olympians – legendary footballer Dr. T Ao and archer Chekrovolü Swüro – he highlighted the state's strong sporting spirit despite its relatively small size and population.
Acknowledging the presence of accomplished former sportspersons, Kenye emphasised the significant impact Nagaland continues to make in the sports arena.
However, he lamented that a lack of basic facilities has hindered them from fully realizing the potential of young athletes.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]He stressed that sports have consistently been a focus, even through previous administrations, but financial constraints have been a limiting factor.
While acknowledging support from the central government, he acknowledged the progress made by financially robust states and expressed determination to bridge the gap.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Kenye remained hopeful that future development efforts would generate the necessary income to cater to the needs of sportspersons.
Under the leadership of the Chief Minister, he assured that the government is committed to uplifting athletes, offering essential amenities and resources.
Drawing parallels to Latin American footballers' humble beginnings, he underscored the importance of self-discipline in becoming professional athletes.
He expressed contentment at the presence of numerous medalists at the event, extending heartfelt congratulations to the awardees and encouraging them to persist in their pursuit of excellence.
He further expressed hope that the Department of Youth Resources and Sports will continue prioritizing sports in the government's future plans.
Observing the significance of National Sports Day in honor of the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, Keoshu S Yimkhiung, Advisor of Youth Resources and Sports, highlighted his unwavering passion for the game, serving as a reminder of the heights attainable through determination.
As the state united with the rest of the nation in celebration, he detailed the department's recognition of 300 sportspersons across various disciplines, each of whom demonstrated exceptional prowess in their respective fields.
Yimkhiung encouraged the awardees to serve as a wellspring of inspiration for emerging sports stars within the state while emphasising the need to reaffirm their commitment to offering optimal opportunities, facilities, and support to Nagaland's aspiring athletes.
Witnessing the fervor and devotion of the awardees, who actively contribute to fostering a sports-centric culture that brings honor to both the nation and the state, the advisor said he was filled with joy.
He underlined that such occasions play a pivotal role in promoting physical activities and instilling the values of sports, which collectively elevate India's stature as a formidable sports nation.
Furthermore, the event acknowledged coaches and winners from diverse events during the recent Athletics Meet held at IGS Kohima.
The event included an invocation of God's blessings by Rev. Yamyao Konyak, the State Chaplain, a welcome address by Wezope Kenye, Commissioner and Secretary of Youth Resources and Sports, a soulful song presentation by Khriephrenuo Mere, and a vote of thanks delivered by Kethosituo Sekhose, director of the department.