K Pushen and Khuming from Nagaland with officials pose for lends after winning bronze medals at the 3rd SQAY Martial Art National Championship 2024-2025, held in Maharashtra from November 18 to 20.
State Association urges more supports and structured sports progs
Kohima, November 21 (MExN): K Pushen and Khuming from Nagaland have each won a bronze medal in the senior category at the 3rd SQAY Martial Art National Championship 2024-2025, held in Maharashtra from November 18 to 20.
Terming the win a significant achievement for the state and inspiration to future generations,, the SQAY Martial Art Association of Nagaland congratulated the duo on their success. A total of five participants from Nagaland, including four athletes and one coach, took part in the championship. They were Khuming (66kg category), Luping K (66kg category), K Pushen (62kg category), Henu (70kg category), and coach Gabriel.
In a press release, the Association stated that coach Gabriel’s leadership and expertise were instrumental in the team’s success.
The victories have brought pride to Nagaland and highlighed the untapped potential of the state’s youth, particularly those from rural areas, it said.
Despite facing systemic neglect and limited opportunities, the athletes demonstrated exceptional talent and determination and the accomplishment underscores the need for greater support and recognition of rural athletes, who often lack platforms to showcase their abilities, it added.
Meanwhile, the SQAY Martial Art Association highlighted that under the leadership of its newly appointed President, Lepzungchiba Jamir, the Association is focusing on identifying talent from grassroots levels.
With limited resources, the Association provided comprehensive training for one month, covering all expenses and ensuring that athletes had access to quality facilities and the two bronze medals is a testament of these targeted efforts, it maintained.
The achievements of these athletes emphasise the urgent need for the government of Nagaland to invest in structured sports programmes and provide equal opportunities for all talented individuals, irrespective of their background, to compete at national and international levels, it added.
