KOHIMA — The sports meet of the Northern Maram Students' and Youths' Organisation (NMSYO), which began on October 23 at N Raisung ground, Maram Bazaar, Manipur, on the theme "Binding together" concluded on October 31.
Kevipodi Sophie, MLA from Nagaland and former president of the Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO), attended the valedictory function and prize distribution ceremony as the special guest.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Speaking on the occasion, he expressed joy at experiencing the event and humorously referred to as ‘two big hearts’ coming together to resolve their differences. Sophie expressed a keen desire to emulate the example set by NMSYO, which had extended an invitation to them to be part of the event.
He expressed gratitude to the organisers for inviting not only him but also his entourage by extending warm greetings on behalf of the Southern Angami people.
The MLA emphasised that the invitation symbolised the preservation of brotherhood and friendship between the Maram and southern Angami people, emphasising their historical relationship dating back to the 1930s.
He stressed the importance of maintaining unity and brotherhood even during challenging times and also acknowledged the contributions made by their visionary leaders and pioneers.
Sophie emphasised that true friendship and brotherhood should endure not only during good times but also during times of trouble and turmoil. He encouraged finding solutions to disputes such as the ‘Kezoltsa issue’ based on historical facts, and maintaining good relationships among the three neighboring communities saying that they will remain neighbours for generations to come.
He reminded everyone that no one should be subjugated based on minority or majority status or rely solely on claims and counterclaims. He underlined the significance of events like the sports meet, as they provide an opportunity for communities to better understand each other and introspect.
Sophie encouraged sportspersons, who did not win prizes, not to view it as a defeat, emphasising that ‘failure is the pillar of success.’
He noted the achievements of northeastern sportspersons at national and international levels and urged them to focus their minds, persevere, and overcome challenges to succeed.
The legislator advised the winners to maintain humility while striving for higher achievements and consistency, stressing that every winner and loser can learn from failures and defeats.
Sophie urged the communities to unite for a brighter future, emphasising the importance of working together.
The valedictory function was also attended by K Timothy Zimik, former principal chief commissioner of Income Tax, as the guest of honour; Sagongnamba, chief of Maram, as the special guest; and K Raina, former deputy speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, as the host guest.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by J Kumo Sha, MLA of Manipur and former ANSAM president, as the chief guest, and T Karaihing Abraham, president of the Northern Maram People's Organisation (NMPO), as the host guest, on October 23.