CHÜMOUKEDIMA, FEBRUARY 17 (MExN): Stating that youth are the most valuable assets of a nation, Nagaland Governor La Ganesan on Saturday called upon the custodians of their future to enable and empower them.
“It is imperative that we, as the custodians of their future, enable and empower them by providing the platforms they so richly deserve, where they can excel and showcase their abilities not just on an national scale but make ripples in the international arena,” the Governor said while addressing the closing ceremony of the 3rd Nagaland Olympics and Paralympic Games 2024 held at Regional Centre for Sporting Excellence, Sovima.
Pointing out that Nagas are generally athletic and agile, conditioned by our diet and topography, the Governor expressed confidence that with proper grooming and opportunity, Nagas can soar high and bring not just honor to Nagaland but contribute to the sporting legacy of India.
Apart from these Olympic sporting events, Governor also reminded that Nagaland has a strong tradition of indigenous games and sports.
“Traditional Naga games such as wrestling, archery, spear throwing etc have been an important part of our recreation for centuries and I have seen that our people are also very passionate about it. These games are innately and passionately linked to our cultural heritage. We must preserve and promote our cultural heritage by promoting our traditional games too,” he articulated.
The Governor also expressed pride that in the recent years Nagaland has step up on the national sporting stage, “steadily enhancing our medals tally, and more importantly, etching the spirit of our land on the broader canvas of sporting excellence.”
“This has not happened by itself, but through the unrelenting passion and perseverance of our athletes and the dedicated efforts of the Nagaland Olympic Association under the able leadership of its President, Neiphiu Rio, our Chief Minister,” he stated.
The Governor also informed that 5 new multidisciplinary indoor sports complexes were inaugurated in the 5 new districts recently and many more are in the offing. These centres should become vibrant hubs for sporting activities and youth empowerment, he said.
With Nagaland set to host the prestigious 3rd Edition of the North East Games 2024 next month, the Governor urged all to “make use of such opportunities to showcase our vibrant youth and their talents and potentials.”
