KOHIMA: In a major push towards promoting sports and youth development in the state, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated five cutting-edge indoor stadiums across the state.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Regional Centre for Sporting Excellence in Sovima on Monday, marked the first phase of the government’s comprehensive indoor stadium development programme.
The other four districts that witnessed the inauguration virtually include Nuiland, Noklak, Tuensang and Tseminyu.
Chief Minister Rio highlighted the significance of these projects, and expressed his satisfaction at the timely completion of the stadiums.
Dedicating the newly constructed sports facilities to the youth, Rio urged them to take on the responsibility of bringing home medals and showcasing Nagaland’s prowess in sports.
He announced the allocation of budgets for six more stadiums during 2021-22, forming part of a broader plan that includes the development of synthetic tracks, centres of excellence, grounds, and sports complexes in various districts.
Constructed under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode, the stadiums utilised pre-engineered and fabricated materials, aiming to reduce construction time and maintenance costs significantly.
Chief Minister Rio acknowledged the challenges faced by the state, including the unresolved Naga political issue, but highlighted the importance of youth involvement in sports as a means of distraction from these challenges.
Rio also highlighted the potential of sports as an industry for generating employment opportunities and declared Chümoukedima district as a “Sports & Education City”. He encouraged other districts to identify sectors for their growth and development.
In a significant announcement, Rio also renamed the “Hornbill Futsal Festival” as the “Hornbill Sports Festival” and said the government’s committed to installing futsal turfs in all districts.
The chief minister revealed plans to organise sporting events throughout the year, aligning with a comprehensive sports policy in line with the Fit India Movement.
Encouraging youth participation not only in sports but also in music, arts, culture, and tradition, Rio stressed on preserving Nagaland’s unique identity.
