Kohima, September 2 (MExN): The Department of Youth Resources and Sports celebrated National Sports Day by awarding 26 athletes from the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association with cash prizes. The ceremony took place at IG Stadium, Kohima, recognizing the athletes’ achievements in regional and national Pencak Silat championships for the year 2023-2024.
The athletes collectively earned 65 medals across five different championships. To further honor their achievements, the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association hosted a special felicitation program at its headquarters on September 1. The event was graced by H. Khehovi Yepthomi, former MLA and Advisor for the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture, who serves as the Chief Patron of the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association.
Yepthomi expressed gratitude to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, MLA and Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S. Keoshu Yimchunger, and the Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose. He commended their support in recognizing the athletes’ achievements and providing financial incentives. This recognition, he noted, serves as a powerful encouragement for the athletes and highlights the department’s commitment to nurturing young talent and advancing Pencak Silat in Nagaland.
Yepthomi lauded the department’s efforts in promoting a positive sports culture, which instills discipline and dedication among youth. He also acknowledged the association’s role in raising the profile of Pencak Silat and fostering a sense of pride and awareness in the state.
The athletes honored included Liike Kibami, Kitenlo K. Thono, Avikali V. Sheqi, Kevin, Hinokali, Hatneinem Khongsai, Jon, Tiayanger Imsong, Chithuyio Kajisho, Edwina Lhinghoithem Hanghal, A. Vipu Assumi, Tsemthak Konyak, Akhumse Sangtam, Nipavito Rengma, Vikapu Yepthomi, Altab Uddin Choudhury, Dipraj Paswan, Aahan Debnath, Anuska Adhikari, Puloka Achumi, Imnatoshi Longkumer, Niepuleno Suokhrie, Dausanliu Rentta, Rahul Kumar Ray, Anshuman Adhikari, and Ashish Kumar Ray.
