Kohima, 23 February (MTNews): The wrestling games of the Khelo India University Games commenced at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on 23 February 2024 where Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the opening ceremony as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized that Khelo India University Games aim to create aspirational values with the international standards and ensure long term athlete development. He also highlighted that the games are intended to promote a sporting culture, establish a strong interlink between sports and education, and enhance sports ecosystem in universities.
Chief Minister Rio mentioned that Nagas have a long-standing tradition of practicing their own style of wrestling, emphasizing that they wrestle not as opponents but as friends. Despite limited resources, he expressed that Nagaland is doing its best to host the games and encouraged athletes to give their best, hoping for a memorable stay in Nagaland.
The welcome address was delivered by Advisor, Youth Resources & Sports, S Keoshu Yimkhing, and the program was chaired by Director, Youth Resources & Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose. The national anthem was performed by the 1 Naga Girls Battalion NCC Band. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Ministers, Advisors, and senior government officials.
The games began with verification, followed by qualifications and repêchages. The finals for various weight categories were also held during the day.
Later, taking to X platform, Rio said, “I warmly welcome our guests to Nagaland. The Univ. Games under the Khelo India Scheme has risen to the highest standards with 200 universities participating annually.”
While thanking the government for the opportunity to co-host the 4th edition of Khelo IndiaUniversity Games in Wrestling, Rio also said Nagas love wrestling which is akin to Belt Wrestling rather than Freestyle or Greco-Roman styles.
Naga wrestling is not only a form of entertainment but also for settling disputes and even making friendships, he said. “We do not the use the word “opponent” but call him “khrietho-u” or “friend.”Holding the Games in our State is a step towards promoting other styles of wrestling,” he added.
Rio also mentioned that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the International Hornbill Festival and added, “The year begun with Nagaland Olympics & now the Khelo India University Games. We will also be hosting the North East Olympics from March 18, 2024.”
Nagaland is hosting the KIUG-Asthalaxmi for wrestling event – freestyle and Greco-Roman style for men and free style for women – which is being participated by about 240 grapplers from around 100 universities representing the eight zones of the country.
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