Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio addresses the gathering during the inaugural ceremony of Dr T Ao Trophy 2025 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on August 1.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 1
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio said today the state government is committed to the development of football and other sporting disciplines, stating that sports today is no longer just a pastime or entertainment, but a global industry.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Dr T Ao Trophy – 24th Inter-District Football Championship 2025 – at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima, the CM said, “Sports is no more a pass time or for entertainment but it has became a global sports industry.”
He described Dr T Ao as “Nagaland’s most iconic son,” who captained the Indian football team at the 1948 London Olympics. “When he can do it in the past four decades, today, with all the facilities and support, I believe our youth can do it and we should carry forward his legacy,” he said. “To be successful like him,” Dr Rio continued, “Players has to be completely dedicated with sincerity, hard work and perseverance.”
Dr Rio thanked the All India Football Federation for renaming the Junior (Girls) National Football Championship as the Dr T Ao National Girls Junior Football Championship in honour of the football legend from Nagaland.
He said the inter-district football tournament serves as a platform to bring together players from all districts and tribes of Nagaland to build unity and grow together. “The government will continue to coach the players and also the officials who are managing the players,” he said.
The CM informed that two Naga footballers are currently undergoing training in Thailand and expressed hope that they would soon compete at the international level. Under the Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarship Scheme, 16 footballers and three coaches are presently receiving training, he added.
On infrastructure development, Dr Rio said Astro Turf grounds have already been completed in Tuensang, Mokokchung, Zunheboto, Phek, Mon, and Chümoukedima districts, and added, “We are also developing Futsal in 28 locations and 31 multipurpose building in the state.”
Organising Committee Convenor and MLA Kevipodi Sophie said that the championship not only celebrates the spirit of the game but also honours the enduring legacy of Dr T Ao, the first captain and flag bearer of the Indian Olympic football team at the 1948 London Olympics. “The unwavering support and commitment of Dr Neiphiu Rio to the promotion of sports particularly football, continues to inspire and empower young athletes across the state,” Sophie said. “His gracious presence at this championship is a testament to his dedication to nurturing talent, fostering unity, and upholding the legacy of the legendary Dr T Ao.”
He said the government envisioned the championship as a platform to nurture and empower youth, especially in football, enabling them to compete at the national and even international levels. “Let this championship be a shining example of fair play, team spirit, and friendship, both on and off the field,” Sophie added.
