Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the Nagaland Super League (NSL), the state’s premier football tournament, at the newly completed Chümoukedima Football Stadium (CFS), Police Complex on Tuesday.
The event was attended by Kalyan Chaubey, President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), marking a significant milestone for football in the state.
The inaugural programme also witnessed the launching of FIFA’s “Football for Schools” initiative with All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey handing over the first of 2,484 footballs to the School Education department for distribution to schools across the state.
Chief Minister Rio highlighted the government’s commitment to promoting football and providing world-class facilities to players.
The inauguration of the NSL coincided with the opening of the Chümoukedima Football Stadium and the celebration of the 107th birth anniversary of legendary Naga footballer Dr T Ao, who captained the Indian football team at the 1948 London Olympics.
Rio further informed that six astro-turf grounds have been completed in six districts.
“We have plans to develop similar grounds in all districts within three years so as to provide equal opportunities to aspiring athletes.”
He encouraged Nagaland’s players to strive for excellence and compete at the highest levels, including national and international platforms.
Rio thanked the AIFF, under Chaubey’s leadership, for its support in making the NSL a reality.
He stated that the NSL is not just a tournament but the beginning of a movement to transform football in the state. He wished the best to the participating teams, hoping for growth and success in the future.
The NSL offers several prizes, including a car for the best player of the league and Rs 10,000 for the player of the match, along with awards for the best goalkeeper, best young player, and more.
Each team must include 26 local players out of a 30-player roster, ensuring opportunities for local talent.
ALSO READ: Nagaland: First inmate-run fuel station inaugurated at District Jail in Dimapur
During the ceremony, Paralympic medalist and Arjuna Awardee Hokato Hotozhe Sema donated his bronze medal-winning jersey from the Paris 2024 Paralympics to the Nagaland Olympic Association.
Rio presented a cheque of Rs 1.5 crore to Paralympian bronze medalist Hokato Hotozhe Sema for his historic achievement.
