Nagaland’s esports team participates in Khelo India Youth Games

Published on May 9, 2025

DIMAPUR — The Department of Youth Resources and Sports has informed that, for the first time, a contingent from Nagaland officially participated in the esports category at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, held in Patna, Bihar on May 6- 7.
According to a DIPR report, esports was introduced as a demonstration sport during the national-level event.
The Nagaland contingent consisted of nine members—seven players, one team manager, and one coach—who represented the state in three esports disciplines, including eChess, eFootball, and Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI).
“This historic participation underscores the state government’s continued commitment to supporting emerging sports and creating new opportunities for youth development in the digital age,” it stated.

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In alignment with the growing need to promote mental well-being and psychological preparedness in competitive environments, an orientation programme was organised on May 4 at 2025 at Hotel Grand Vista, Dimapur, for the participants.
The session was designed to help participants develop tools to maintain mental resilience and overall health in the high-pressure world of esports.
The keynote address was delivered by assistant professor and head of the Department of Psychology, Dimapur Government College, Dr. Temsusenla Jamir. Speaking on the theme, ‘Mental resilience and performance,” Dr. Jamir emphasized the importance of cultivating a positive mindset, managing stress, adapting to challenges, regulating emotions, and persevering under pressure. She also introduced practical techniques and exercises aimed at enhancing focus, mental clarity, and performance sustainability in competitive scenarios.
Lamgouhao Kipgen, representing Nagaland in the eFootball category, secured first place by defeating his opponent from Arunachal Pradesh. His achievement marks a significant milestone for the state and exemplifies the potential of Nagaland’s youth in the field of esports, the report stated.
“This landmark participation lays the foundation for greater institutional support for esports in Nagaland and affirms the state’s commitment to nurturing excellence in both traditional and emerging sports disciplines,” the report added.