Nagaland’s growing presence in the national sports arena received a significant boost with Abu Metha’s election as Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) recently. This achievement is a testament to the state’s latent sporting potential and signals an opportunity for Nagaland to emerge as a sports powerhouse through athletics. Yet, while the state celebrates this milestone, areas like Mokokchung remain conspicuously underdeveloped in developing talent and infrastructure for athletics, highlighting a critical gap in the larger narrative of sporting advancement.
Athletics is often referred to as the bedrock of sports, a domain where raw talent, discipline, and determination converge. Nagaland has no shortage of natural talent; the state’s youth excel in various disciplines. However, athletics – a field that lays the foundation for many other sports -remains neglected. Mokokchung, a district known for its cultural vibrancy and skilled individuals, suffers from a dearth of formal athletics events, inadequate infrastructure, and limited public engagement in athletics.
The absence of dedicated tracks, training facilities, and organized events in Mokokchung stifles the growth of budding athletes. Moreover, the lack of public interest and awareness about athletics as a viable career option adds to the challenge. We must recognize that athletics not only builds physical strength but also instills discipline, resilience, and a sense of purpose among the youth.
Abu Metha’s election provides a timely opportunity to address these challenges. As Vice President of the AFI, Metha is in a position to advocate for the development of athletics in Nagaland, ensuring that districts like Mokokchung are not left behind. Meanwhile, local authorities must capitalize on this momentum by initiating programs to engage the public, organize athletics camps, and develop the necessary infrastructure. Additionally, schools and colleges should integrate athletics into their curricula to nurture talent from a young age.
The state government’s emphasis on sports under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio must extend to neglected districts. Public-private partnerships could also play a pivotal role in building infrastructure and talent.
Mokokchung’s potential in athletics is undeniable, but it requires vision, investment, and collaboration to flourish. With the right efforts, the district can contribute significantly to Nagaland’s sporting glory, paving the way for the state to become a beacon of excellence and influence in the field of athletics.