DYRS officials during a press conference on Thursday, ahead of Khelo India University Games 2024 wrestling events being hosted by Nagaland from February 23-26 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. (Morung Photo)
• 240 athletes, 80 officials in State capital
• Nagaland State unrepresented
Morung Express News
Kohima | February 22
Nagaland is all set to host the 4th edition of the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2024 from February 23-25 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
The KIUG is being organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports with Government of Nagaland and Nagaland University (NU).
Addressing a press conference here today, Secretary, Department of Youth Resources & Sports (DYRS), Anthony Ngullie said mentioned that while the main events are taking place in Assam, Nagaland has is the wrestling events. This is a ‘privilege and an honour’ for the State, he added.
Meanwhile, DYRS Director Kethosituo Sekhose informed that KIUG 2024 is being hosted by the seven North-East States featuring the mascot Ashtalakshmi symbolizing prosperity.
A total of 240 athletes and 80 officials have arrived for the wrestling events, he said.
During the 3-day wrestling events, matches in 10 weight categories ranging from 57 kgs to 130 kgs will be played under two styles: free styles for both men and women, and Greco-Roman for men.
Medal distribution will occur daily after 3 pm, and athletes from 100 universities are expected to participate in the wrestling competitions.
The opening ceremony on February 23 at 3:30 pm will be graced by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and DYRS Advisor Keoshu Yimkhiung.
However, it is noteworthy that despite hosting the KIUG, Nagaland does not have a single participant from the host state. It was learnt that universities have to send students to the zonal competition, and winners are then selected to participate in the KIUG.
Logistic arrangements
Regarding logistics, Sekhose informed that 14-15 hotels and homestays have been arranged to accommodate the guests, with various departments providing support.
Reception areas have been set up at Dimapur Railway station and the airport to welcome and see off the guests, he said.
The 11-day KUIG officially kicked off in Guwahati, featuring over 200 institutes from across India.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur informed during the inaugural that a total of 4544 athletes from across the nation will compete in 18 different venues spread over Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Tripura.
The event will cover 20 sports disciplines, including athletics, rugby, swimming, badminton, hockey, and football, among others.
