Longleng, August 23 (MTNews): The LIN – NING 44th Inter-District & State Open Badminton Championship and Nagaland Olympic & Paralympic Games 2022 began at Longleng after it was formally inaugurated by Minister for Health & Family Welfare S. Pangnyu Phom on 23rd August at Multi- Purpose Hall, Longleng.
While lauding the District Badminton Association and District Administration Longleng headed by the Deputy Commission and all others involved for their tremendous effort and outstanding contribution in making the tournament a reality and a better platform for all, Pangnyu asserted that organizing such mega sports event in the district marks the beginning of development, progress and capabilities in all-round activities of Longleng.
Acknowledging that lack of resources as a reason for failure in many aspects that discourage many young talents for opting sports as a profession, the Minister said despite all these challenges, he is grateful and honored to see the sports persons of the state excelling and catching up with other sports persons. He Informed that the government of the day is doing its best to upgrade the infrastructure and quality management of the sportsperson down to the grassroots level as seen today the grand tournament with well-equipped facilities.
Pangnyu also exhorted the participants and the sportsperson from across the state to be well determined, develop a sense of winning heart to prosper and break the barriers to be an asset for the state. He was optimistic that every player will truly maintain discipline and game spirit abiding to the laid down rules throughout the tournament and beyond.
Lamenting that we Nagas become prey to intoxication and other bad habits which destroy their bright future without accomplishing their goals and aspirations, Pangnyu advised the young talented players to refrain from such intoxications and build a firm relationship with their passion for their bright future. He further urged upon the sportsperson present and across the state to pledge to be rededicated with commitment for a better future ahead.
Deputy Commissioner, Longleng, Dharamraj, IAS extended gratitude to all the officials, players and their management for their active participation, wisdom and luck for the coming event.
In his short speech Dr. Watizulu Suzumeren Sr. Vice President NBA & Vice President BAI informed that it is the first tournament representative by all the 16 districts of the state, first time live telecast system will be used and first time using the court mat and grateful to the collective effort of the NBA and the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for providing the court mat. He also lauded the stadium of Longleng for being the best stadium in the state with four courts and other facilities provided. Informing that the 50 years of NBA will be held in Kohima in 2023 he encouraged the team Longleng to practice well and perform well during the celebration of 50 years of NBA in Kohima with all the good facilities provided and available in the district. He also felicitated the Chief Guest and other guests present at the event.
The tournament is hosted by Longleng District Badminton Association and sponsored by LI-NING Company (a Sportswear & Sports Equipment Company), and is held under the theme “Empowering Peace Through Sports and Games: Connecting Communities”.