Glimpses of sporting events from the first day of the 65th KVSA meet 2022 in Kohima on January 17. (Morung Photos)
65th KVSA meet 2022 makes colorful start in Kohima
Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 17
Denizens of the State’s capital Kohima today were enthralled by the spectacular opening ceremony of the weeklong LXV (65th) Kohima Village Sports Association (KVSA) Meet 2022, which kicked off this morning at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground).
Around 600 sportspersons from four Khels—Tsütuonuomia, Lhisemia, Dapfhütsumia and Pfüchatsumia of Kohima village will vie for top honours in volleyball, basketball, football, Naga wrestling, Cross Country race, Chess, Badminton, Table Tennis and athletics, which will continue till January 22.
Gracing the opening ceremony, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio lauded the pioneers of KVSA, which was set up in 1944 to promote sports, foster friendship and unity among the villagers.
Stating that Kohima village is the second biggest village in Asia, he acknowledged the contribution and progressive journey of the village in many fronts and urged upon them to continue be to a role model for others to follow suit.
Rio assured that the State Government is committed to accord higher priority for promotion of sports in the state. Stating that Nagaland is the second senior most state after Assam in the North East, Rio said that Nagaland is now matured enough to host the National Games as well.
In this, he stressed on the need to focus towards ‘medal prospects’ from now onwards and perform well as and when Nagaland gets chance to host National Games.
He also assured that the government would focus on building more sports infrastructure in the state.
Asking the youth to make the best use of their talents, Rio called upon them to give full dedication and take discipline as the main tool to shine in the field of games and sports.
Rio insisted that substance abuse or alcohol should be avoided and sportspersons should live a life of discipline coupled with hard work and dedication. Sportspersons are the richest, most celebrated and famous people in the world, Rio said.
He meanwhile pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted all normal ways.
We are yet to overcome the virus, for which WHO, State and Central Governments have also given SOPs and guidelines, Rio said and urged upon the people to follow all COVID appropriate behavior and stay safe.
Kohima Village Youth Organization (KVYO) President, Ruokuoneituo Phewhuo delivered the presidential address while Kohima Village Council Chairman, Helievio Solo shared greetings. Medo Keretsü, Head GB, Kohima village pronounced the traditional blessing.
The opening ceremony also witnessed special appearance from St Mary’s Cathedral Higher Secondary School Kohima.
With KVYO as host, the meet will be held in three locations—Kohima local ground, Khuochiezie, Indira Gandhi Stadium and Kohima Indoor Stadium.
Meanwhile, Kevisazolie Solo of Tsütuonuomia Khel, Theguolhoulie Keyho of Pfuchatsumia khel, Kekuosetuo Rutsa of Pfuchatsumia and Thejasevor Kire of Dapfhütsumia khel emerged as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th position winners respectively in under-16 wrestling.
Day 2 events (January 18)
9:00 AM : Athletics
10:30 AM : Chess
1:30 PM : Football (Ist Match)
2:40 PM : Football (2nd Match)
