The 44th Asetkong Students’ Conference (AKTM) Sports Meet began at Kobulong EAC headquarters under Mokokchung district on January 7 with Temsuwangshi Jamir, Assistant Manager, Research and Planning, Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority, as the chief sports patron. More than 600 delegates from Sungratsu, Mopungchuket, Chami, Kobulong, Longpa, and Longjang units are participating in the three-day event.
In his address, Jamir said that throughout history, sports have brought communities together across linguistic and cultural divides, citing the ancient Olympic Games as a symbol of friendship and harmony.
“Winning isn’t everything; true sportsmanship lies in character, integrity, and respect for one’s opponent,” Jamir remarked, adding that through sports, individuals learn discipline, teamwork, and resilience — the courage to rise after every defeat.
Recalling legendary Naga footballer Dr. Talimeren Ao, India’s first Olympic football captain in 1948, Jamir said Ao’s legacy embodies the true spirit of sports — leadership, humility, and national pride. He also shared the story of his niece, Lenien Jamir, daughter of Amba, whose perseverance in tennis earned her national recognition and an athletic scholarship at Monmouth University, USA, illustrating how sports can create academic and global opportunities for youth from Nagaland.
Addressing the gathering, Meyisanger Lemtur, Vice President of the Nagaland Football Association, advised participants to pursue one chosen discipline with dedication to excel professionally in sports.
The sports meet is being conducted under the supervision of licensed judges, umpires, and referees from various disciplines. The meet features competitions in tug-of-war, football, basketball, and table tennis.
This year’s event includes Air Rifle Shooting as a new addition, overseen by S. Merang Jamir, ISSF Judge and Coach and Governing Body Member of the National Rifle Association of India, along with Chubatoshi from Lady Bird Shooting Academy and other experts.