Temjen Imna Along, Minister, Higher Education and Tribal Affairs speaking during the inaugural day of the 3rd All Nagaland Dr Imkongliba Ao Memorial Open Volleyball Trophy at State Stadium, Lotha Colony, Dimapur on November 23. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | November 23
The 3rd All Nagaland Dr Imkongliba Ao Memorial Open Volleyball Trophy was officially kicked-off at State Stadium, Dimapur on November 23 organised by the Japukong Youth Organisation (JYO) with Temjen Imna Along, Minister, Higher Education and Tribal Affairs, being invited as the tournament’s chief host for the inaugural day.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister observed how the times are changing and “today the younger lot of the Nagas aspire dream and endeavour to be with the rest of the world in advancement, development and aspirations.” At the same time, he mentioned that the youths have not forgotten the legacy of past leaders as well. The minister remarked on the contributions made by Dr Imkongliba Ao as a pioneer statesman who was instrumental in the creation of the State of Nagaland.
Nevertheless, he regretted that today, the word unity has been misused by the Nagas more so than anyone else. As it has to be lived and not just written on sign boards and on t-shirts as a fashionable trend. It has to be practiced in the spirit of commitment and action. Furthermore, he opined that the silence of the right thinking people has been the greatest setback towards the progression of the state. This was due to the negative elements of nepotism, tribalism and hypocrisy that have thwarted any attempts at speaking the truth and to live in peaceful unity. The youths also only wish to hear the message of disunity, nepotism and hypocrisy that divides our people, he remarked.
“Let this message go through this platform of the 3rd Dr Imkongliba Ao Memorial trophy,” he declared.
Besides these points, he commended the efforts of the JYO for organising such an event in Dimapur.
ommenting on volleyball as a sport with which the Nagas have taken much interest in, he hoped for many more youngsters to compete in both national and international levels in the days to come.
Earlier short speeches were delivered by Atomi Swu, Vice President Western Sumi Hoho and Moayanger Jamir, President, Dimapur Naga Students Union (DNSU).
In total, eight teams are participating in the three day long tournament. These include MH-10 Red, Elite Spikers, Mustang Club, Chienino Brothers Kiruphema, Spartan Club Lakhuni, Chantongya Volleyball Association, Eimi Spikers and MH-10 Green. The champions will receive a total cash prize of Rs 1,50,000 while the first and second runners-up will be given Rs 80,000 and Rs 40,000 respectively.
