Kohima: On the occasion of National Sports Day, Nagaland honoured 151 sportspersons from across the state who excelled at the Northeast, national and international levels.
Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S Keoshu Yimkhiung, announced that the state government is drafting a new sports policy in line with the ‘Khelo Bharat Niti 2025′. The policy will bolster the state’s sports ecosystem and reflect athletes’ interests, he added.
The day marks the birth anniversary of India’s “Hockey Wizard” Major Dhyan Chand. The day honours the achievements of Major Dhyan Chand and other athletes, and celebrates the contributions of athletes who have brought glory to India.
Yimkhiung further mentioned that sports infrastructure is being developed across all 17 districts of the state.
“Most districts are now equipped with modern stadiums, futsal courts, and other facilities, with additional projects in progress for the remaining districts,” he stated.
He also encouraged the police department to create job opportunities for promising athletes.
Rupin Sharma, Nagaland‘s Director General of Police, highlighted both the passion and challenges faced by athletes in the state.
He emphasized that while sports help build discipline, resilience, and character, athletes often face short-lived careers and a lack of private sponsorships in Nagaland due to economic constraints and geographic isolation.
He announced that Nagaland Police would soon begin recruiting qualified sportspersons. He also recommended integrating athletes as referees, coaches, and trainers.
Sharma stressed the importance of collaboration, urging for stronger partnerships between government departments and private stakeholders, including through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, to foster a sustainable sports ecosystem.
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The theme for National Sports Day 2025 is “Sport to Promote Peaceful and Inclusive Societies.” This theme stresses the role of sports in fostering unity, teamwork, and harmony across different communities, promoting peace and inclusivity through physical activity.
