Two-week free shooting training, competition begins in Dimapur

DIMAPUR —  A two-week free training and competition programme on the theme ‘Sports for All’ commenced on Friday at the Temjen Toy Indoor Shooting Range, Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex, Duncan, Dimapur. The event is being organised by the Nagaland Shooting Sports Association (NSSA) in collaboration with the department of Youth Resources and Sports.

Altogether, 109 participants are taking part, including 67 male (one trainer) and 42 female shooters.

Speaking as the special guest, Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose, said shooting was deeply rooted in Naga culture, recalling that even during the colonial era, Nagas were already skilled in making guns. He observed that while firearms were once tools of war, they have evolved into instruments of sport. He stressed that mental preparation is crucial in shooting competitions, accounting for nearly half of the performance.

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Sekhose also highlighted the government’s efforts under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to promote sports, including the development of indoor stadiums across the state. He said that 31 such facilities are expected to be completed by the end of the financial year, adding that a new sports policy aligned with the national framework is also being formulated.

Guest of honour and Assistant Secretary General of the Nagaland Olympic Association, Neivikuolie Khatsu, urged athletes to maintain focus, discipline, and effective time management. He encouraged young shooters to prioritise their goals and surround themselves with peers who share similar sporting interests.

Chief host and Working President of NSSA, JI Yaden, recounted the formation of the association following the merger of the Nagaland State Rifle Association and Nagaland Rifle Association in November 2019. He noted that 12 registered shooting clubs in the state are affiliated with the NSSA.