Nagaland: Dr. T Ao inter-district tourney kept in abeyance

Our Correspondent
Kohima, Nov. 9 (EMN): Dr. T Ao inter-district football tournament, which was tentatively scheduled to be held in the month of October, has been kept in abeyance due to technical problems arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic, said the advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, Zale Neikha.

He informed journalists that the department had discussed with its components and cells -- TaFMA, NSS, NCC, Bharat Scouts and Guides and officials of the department --, exploring the possibilities of conducting the tournament.

“We have agreed in principle (not to hold the tournament) but subject to further discussion (with) Nagaland Football Association (NFA),” said Neikha.

He maintained that the department had sent its suggestions to the NFA, which had suggested to rationalise its ups and downs, and had also consulted its district associations

However, the advisor said that keeping the standard operating procedures (SOPs) in place and accommodating all the district teams with facilities would be a problem, while on the other hand it cannot be partial by inviting only a few districts for participation.

“After consultation with Nagaland Football Association (NFA) and district football association, we finally came to the conclusion that till now we will keep in abeyance,” he said.

According to the advisor, the Youth Resources and Sports department is anticipating a revised SOP that can allow hosting the tournament and exuded hope that it would pave the way for the same to conduct the event.

For the department, we are very keen to organise tournaments not only football; but as the same standard operating procedure will be followed, till now, we are not in a position to host any tournament, the advisor said.

Further, Neikha informed that the department will pursue options based on the anticipated revised SOP such as contactless sporting activities like badminton, table tennis and others and that it is looking forward to the time when thing will become functional.