S Keoshu Yimkhiung, Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhiitso and others during the inauguration of a new basketball court at Lower Forest Colony Kohima on June 17. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 17
An international-standard basketball court was inaugurated at Lower Forest Colony, Kohima, on Wednesday, adding another sports infrastructure to the state capital and providing a new platform for youth development and community sporting activities.
The facility was inaugurated by Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S Keoshu Yimkhiung in the presence of MLA of the 9th Kohima Town Assembly Constituency Dr Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhiitso and Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Department of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Supongnukshi Ao, IFS.
The basketball court, along with basic amenities, was constructed by Dr Ato under the Iconic Project 2024-25 through the Local Area Development Programme (LADP).
Addressing the gathering, Keoshu lauded Dr Ato for investing in sports infrastructure to make the youth productive and enable them to become assets to society. Stating that Naga youth possess immense sporting potential, he urged budding athletes to maintain consistency in their sporting activities and remain dedicated in their pursuit of excellence.
He also highlighted the role of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, leadership and healthy lifestyles among young people, while encouraging them to make full use of the new facility. The Advisor expressed hope that the basketball court would serve as a hub for sports and youth development in the locality, promoting unity and community spirit among residents.
In his address, Dr Ato thanked the Forest Department for allowing the use of the space for the facility. He said the court would not only promote physical fitness among the youth but also inspire them to pursue professionalism in the sports sector. He further requested the Department of Youth Resources and Sports to adopt the basketball court for its future development.
“Sanctity of the place must be maintained”
Speaking on the occasion, Supongnukshi Ao said the Forest Department had approved the locality's request in good faith, subject to certain conditions and modalities. Stressing that the sanctity of the place must be maintained, he urged the community to ensure that the facility is used responsibly and remains free from illegal activities, alcohol and substance abuse.
Former Forest Colony Youth Organization (FCYO) president Thipuzo Azo Kezo traced the history of the project, saying the idea of constructing a basketball court was conceived during 2015-16 and materialised in 2022 with the support of former MLA Dr Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire.
He said the facility was later upgraded in 2025 after approaching Dr Ato, resulting in the construction of an international-standard basketball court along with a retaining wall, gallery, rostrum, drainage system, fencing and toilet facilities. Kezo thanked Dr Ato for supporting the project.
The programme was chaired by FCYO women coordinator Riikuno Nienu, while Forest Colony Council chairman Peter K Rengma delivered the welcome address. FCYO president Enok Awomi proposed the vote of thanks.
