The second edition of the Inter-Khelo India Centre Archery Tournament got underway in Jalukie on July 9.
KOHIMA — The second edition of the Inter-Khelo India Centre (KIC) Archery Tournament, organised by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) in collaboration with St. Xavier's College, Jalukie, got underway in Jalukie, Peren district, on Thursday.
The tournament has brought together athletes from the KICs at Noklak and Jalukie, along with the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE), Kohima.
Speaking as the special guest, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Peren Hiazu Meru said sports play a vital role in shaping responsible citizens by instilling values such as respect, fairness, integrity, honesty, perseverance, and a positive attitude. He urged the young athletes to uphold these values both on and off the field.
Meru also stressed the need for a comprehensive sports policy and greater recruitment under the sports quota to provide deserving athletes with better career opportunities and a secure future.
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In his welcome address, Director of Youth Resources and Sports Kethosituo Sekhose said the tournament is being organised to provide archers aged 18 years and below with a platform to compete, enhance their skills, and prepare for higher levels of competition.
Highlighting the state government's commitment to sports development, he referred to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's announcement of the Chief Minister's Initiative for Advancement of Sports, which covers archery, badminton, sepak takraw, table tennis, and taekwondo.
He encouraged athletes to make the best use of the opportunities available under the initiative, including advanced coaching outside the state, free boarding and lodging, pocket money, and other support. He expressed confidence that Nagaland has the potential to produce more athletes capable of competing at the highest level, including the Olympics.