Itanagar: The 4th edition of the Arunachal State Games was officially declared open by Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Papum Pare district.
During the inaugural ceremony, CM Khandu announced that the Arunachal State Games will be held annually from this year onwards.
“I also promise that the Arunachal State Games will now become a regular calendar event, celebrating the spirit of unity, fitness, and excellence every year,” Khandu said.
Athletes from all districts of Arunachal Pradesh will be competing in 23 different disciplines, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich sporting talent.
The chief minister said, “Your passion, dedication, and hard work have made Arunachal a rising sporting powerhouse.”
“At the recently concluded 38th National Games, our athletes brought home 13 medals, making us 2nd in the Northeast. With a clear vision and renewed energy, we are now aiming to be among the top 10 states at the 39th National Games in Meghalaya,” he said.
Khandu stated that through the ambitious Mission Olympics, the government is committed to providing the athletes with the best training, be it at top facilities within India or even internationally, depending on their needs.
“To support this journey, we are investing in sports infrastructure across the state; from stadiums in Lower Dibang Valley, Lower Siang, Pakke Kessang, Longding, to the upcoming world-class stadium (25,000 capacity) in the state capital,” he said.
“Beyond building world-class infrastructure, our government is preparing a roadmap to identify young talent at the grassroots and groom them for the future. We will leave no stone unturned in pursuit of our Olympic dreams,” he added.
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He further announced that a state sports authority would soon be constituted to streamline coordination across disciplines.
Boxing world champion and Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain, who attended the event as the guest of honour, urged the competitors to “stay focused on your goals.”
