The third edition of the Nagaland State and Para Games, previously known as the Nagaland Olympic and Paralympic Games, is underway in Dimapur and Chümoukedima.
The third edition of the Nagaland State and Para Games, previously known as the Nagaland Olympic and Paralympic Games, is currently underway in Dimapur and Chümoukedima. While it began with a relatively subdued atmosphere compared to the high-profile Dr. T. Ao Trophy that recently concluded in Mokokchung, this does not diminish the importance of the state's largest multi-sport event. More than 3,000 athletes from 17 districts of the state have gathered to compete for coveted medals in 14 sporting disciplines, including archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, boxing, football, pencak silat, sepaktakraw, taekwondo, volleyball, and wrestling, as well as dedicated Para sports events. Over 13 days, athletes will strive to bring honour to their districts, mirroring the Olympic spirit where glory outweighs monetary prizes. Besides promoting sporting excellence and providing a platform for athletes to showcase their talents, the event also aims to foster unity among the state's various communities through sports, celebrate the human spirit, and champion inclusivity by including para-athletes. This is reflected in the theme for the third edition, "Stronger Together," under the tagline "17 Districts. One State. The Spirit of Sport. The Pride of Nagaland." Sport is more than just a competition; it is a powerful unifying force that transcends cultural barriers, political differences, and social divisions. The ongoing Games should strengthen Nagaland by fostering mutual understanding among different tribes, building lasting relationships, and valuing brotherhood among its various tribes.
Well, the Nagaland State and Para Games have come a long way since their introduction in 2017. Organised under the aegis of the Nagaland Olympic Association, this sporting extravaganza not only provides a competitive platform for athletes to showcase their talent but also helps identify promising sportspersons and nurture amateur athletes. The success of the last two editions has raised the bar in terms of the standard of play, level of competition, fan support, and overall visibility. However, its low-key start does not send out a positive message about the ongoing Games, though the final outcome remains to be seen. An occasion that should be celebrated across the state has kicked off with little fanfare. What the Nagaland Games appear to be lacking is seriousness and enthusiasm, both on the part of the organisers and the district administrations and sports bodies. The lack of publicity and inadequate preparation only reinforce this perception. One common feature of the Games so far has been the practice of districts conducting trials and selecting participants just a few weeks before the main event. This speaks volumes about the level of preparedness. To compete and excel at the highest level, athletes need agility, endurance, passion, physical strength, and mental toughness. Developing these qualities requires proper coaching, structured training, and guidance from experts. Many sportspersons, particularly those from rural areas, may not have access to professional training facilities or qualified coaches. This is where the concerned district authorities must step in and play a proactive role. However, when selections are conducted just weeks before the main event, the possibility of providing athletes with adequate training and preparation remains doubtful. This trend must change if Nagaland aspires to produce Olympic medallists and professional athletes across various sporting disciplines. Identifying talent and preparing athletes for competitive sports requires sustained investment, proper planning, and a long-term vision. It’s time Nagaland looked beyond football, just as India must look beyond cricket.