Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio chaired a crucial meeting in Kohima to review ongoing sports initiatives and finalize strategies for upcoming sports events across the state. The meeting, held on Monday, focused on enhancing grassroots-level infrastructure, identifying local talent, and ensuring timely execution of flagship programmes related to sports and youth welfare.
Read More: Gopinath Bordoloi Remembered on 75th Death Anniversary by Himanta
Nagaland CM reviews sports efforts across departments
During the review, the Chief Minister interacted with officials from the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Sports Authority of Nagaland (SAN), and representatives from the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA). He stressed the need for collaboration among departments to streamline training facilities, accelerate construction of new stadiums, and modernize existing infrastructure.
Neiphiu Rio emphasized that sporting development must be inclusive. He urged stakeholders to reach all districts, particularly rural regions, where local talent remains largely untapped. The CM added that “sports is not only about medals but also about building discipline, health, and pride among our youth.”
Officials presented progress reports on infrastructure projects, including the ongoing development of the Regional Centre of Excellence in Sports at Dimapur. The CM urged departments to adhere strictly to timelines, ensure quality construction, and prepare for the state’s participation in national-level games.
Upcoming events and new policy framework discussed
The meeting also discussed Nagaland’s participation in upcoming national events like the North East Games and Khelo India Youth Games. Rio highlighted the importance of preparing athletes with structured coaching, access to training equipment, and exposure to competitions outside the state.
Plans to host inter-district tournaments later this year also featured in the discussion. The goal is to engage young athletes and foster sportsmanship. The CM also directed the Youth Resources department to submit a proposal for a state-level annual sports calendar that aligns with school and college schedules.
Importantly, the state is working on updating its Sports Policy to reflect current needs. This includes introducing scholarships for medal-winning athletes, strengthening partnerships with sports federations, and incentivizing coaches working in remote districts.
A key part of the policy will be ensuring long-term career opportunities for sportspersons. According to officials, the revised policy will propose recruitment quotas in state services for national and international medal winners.
Special focus on talent from rural Nagaland
Rio laid special focus on empowering youth from remote areas. He proposed organizing talent identification drives across villages and sub-divisions with support from local schools and community-based organizations.
Officials said the government will soon collaborate with sports NGOs to carry out training workshops and health screenings in rural pockets. The CM also stressed creating mentorship opportunities by connecting top athletes with school-level players through outreach programmes.
Further, the meeting emphasized the need to ensure gender inclusivity in all upcoming sporting events. Facilities for women athletes, including secure dormitories and separate training schedules, were discussed in detail. Rio instructed the department to ensure safe and accessible infrastructure for girls in every district.
Infrastructure development to receive a major push
The Chief Minister reviewed proposals for developing district-level multi-sports complexes. These complexes, expected to be operational by 2026, will feature indoor halls, synthetic tracks, swimming pools, and archery ranges. The CM called for strict monitoring of contracts and suggested forming a project audit team to track the quality and speed of construction.
The government is also exploring public-private partnerships (PPPs) for funding certain infrastructure needs. Rio noted that with limited state funds, private investment in stadium management, sports academies, and merchandising can significantly boost the sector.
Moreover, the Sports Authority of Nagaland was asked to prepare a database of active athletes, coaches, and officials across the state. This digital database will help streamline selections and allow efficient delivery of government support.
Rio’s appeal to youth and call for discipline
In a final statement, Rio appealed to young Nagas to take up sports not just for fame but for personal and community growth. He noted that discipline and commitment in sports often lead to lifelong success in other fields.
“Let sports become a lifestyle for our youth. We will continue to support every talented individual and build platforms that help them shine,” Rio said.
The government plans to hold monthly review meetings to ensure timely execution of decisions. The next update on the inter-departmental sports calendar and the progress of district stadiums is expected by mid-September.
With multiple events lined up and a growing investment in sports infrastructure, Nagaland is aiming to become one of the leading contributors to national games from the North East region.
Read More: Outstanding Kolasib District Hospital Healthcare Excellence Wins National Recognition