MLA A Pongshi Phom, speaks during the induction programme of Phom Sports Association in Longleng on May 16. (DIPR Photo)
Longleng, May 16 (MExN): The Longleng District Sports Council (LDSC) held the induction programme of the Phom Sports Association and its federating units on May 16 at the VCC and VDB Hall in Longleng, with MLA A Pongshi Phom attending as the special guest.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of LDSC, W Manpai Phom said the district was set to strengthen its sports framework with the formation of four Area Sports Associations under the PSA.
He noted that Longleng had lagged behind other districts in sports activities due to the absence of a dedicated apex body and discipline-specific organisations for promotion and technical support.
Following a series of consultations with stakeholders and apex bodies, four federating Area Sports Associations were constituted under the district body: Shakshi Area Sports Association (ASA), Longleng ASA, Yongyah ASA, and Tamlu ASA.
He said all sporting activities and achievements in the district would now function under the banner of the district association.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Pongshi said the formation of the PSA had been a long-standing aspiration of the Phom community.
He congratulated the district administration, sports officials, and other stakeholders involved in making the association a reality, and extended his best wishes to the newly inducted office bearers.
He emphasised the importance of building a strong sporting culture at the grassroots level and urged the office bearers to dedicate their time and effort towards the growth of the association.
Stating that factors such as jealousy, bias, and favouritism often hinder the healthy growth and progress of the community, he called for overcoming such challenges in the selection and induction of office bearers and players.
MLA Pongshi also advised youth to prioritise physical health, discipline, and stay away from substance abuse.
During the programme, SDO (Civil) Longleng P Pukha Lam presented the report of the nomination committee while the induction prayer was pronounced by Executive Secretary of Phom Baptist Christian Association, N Tialemba Phom.
The newly inducted office bearers of the PSA and its federating units were also felicitated during the event.
