Kethosituo Sekhose (Middle) with other officials during press conference in Kohima on September 26. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 26
Good news for electronic sports fans of Nagaland and north-eastern states.
The Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland, in collaboration with LVL UP Consultancy is all set to conduct 1st Hornbill Esports Championship 2024 as part of the upcoming 25th anniversary of Hornbill Festival.
This was announced during a press conference by Kethosituo Sekhose, director Youth Resources & Sports in Kohima in the presence of the department officials.
The main event will take place on December 6-7 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Scheduled to run throughout the festival, the Hornbill Esports Championship will feature globally popular games such as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), Dota 2 and FC24 (FIFA).
This time round of Season -1, the Championship is open only for the youth of the north eastern states, said Sekhose
Additionally, Cosplay Competition will be held, where participants can showcase their creativity by embodying their favorite gaming or pop culture characters.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Hornbill Esports Championship as part of this year’s festival. It marks a significant moment in the history of Nagaland, not only because it’s the first esports tournament hosted by the Government of Nagaland but also because it highlights our commitment to the youth and the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment,” informed Sekhose.
Sekhose maintained that Hornbill Esports Championship will benefit the youth in many ways.
In term of skill development, Esports require strategy, teamwork, and quick decision-making.
Participants will enhance these valuable life skills while competing in a fun and engaging environment.
Referring to global opportunities, he said the championship provides a platform for local talent to compete at a high level and potentially gain exposure in national and international gaming circuits.
In term of technology and innovation, he stated that as technology continues to shape the future, engaging in esports helps young people build digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptive skills relevant in today’s job market.
On the ground of inclusive environment, Esports transcends physical boundaries, offering equal opportunities to all, regardless of gender or physical ability.
The Hornbill Esports Championship promotes inclusivity and community among Nagaland’s youth.
By offering a structured and competitive platform, the tournament encourages positive engagement among the youth, providing them with a productive outlet for their energy and creativity.
About Hornbill Festival:
The Hornbill Festival is an annual celebration of Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world.
Now in its 25th year, the festival continues to evolve, blending tradition with modern experiences like esports, to showcase the spirit and talent of the region.
“We believe that the inclusion of esports at the Hornbill Festival represents the growing importance of digital sports and creativity in today’s world. It’s more than just games – it’s about fostering community, competition, and growth for the youth of Nagaland,” the department stated.
For more details, visit @hornbillesportschampionship_ on instagram or contact 8731830244/8837269793.
Registration for the Championship will be entertained till 2nd week of October.
The Department of Youth Resources and Sports is dedicated to empowering the youth of Nagaland by providing opportunities for engagement in sports, education, and community-building activities.
Through innovative programs and initiatives, the department aims to foster the personal and professional development of the youth in Nagaland.
PRIZE MONEY
Battlegrounds Mobile India: 1st: Rs 1.20 lakh; 2nd: Rs 60,000; 3rd: Rs 40,000; 4th: Rs 20,000; 5th: Rs 15,000; 6th: Rs 10,000; 7th: Rs 9000; 8th: Rs 8000; 9th: Rs 7000; 10th: Rs 6000; MVP: Rs 5000.
Dota 2: 1st: Rs 1 lakh; 2nd: Rs 60,000; 3rd: Rs 30,000; 4th: Rs 10,000
FC24: 1st: Rs 25,000; 2nd: Rs 15,000; 3rd: Rs 7000; 4th: Rs 3000
