· CM Neiphiu Rio inaugurates 5 multidiscipline stadiums in Chumoukedima, Tseminyu, Niuland, Noklak and Tuensang districts
· Chümoukedima district to be the Sports and Education City
· Urges respective districts to evolve strategies for their own district
· Hornbill Futsal Festival to be converted into Hornbill Sports Festival
The government of Nagaland has been attempting to bring out a comprehensive Sports Policy by revamping the existing policy, stated Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday, 13 November, during the inauguration of five multidiscipline stadiums at the Regional Centre for Sporting Excellence, Sovima, Chumoukedima. Rio mentioned that the government aims to legislate it in the upcoming Budget Session.
In addition to Chumoukedima, the multidiscipline stadiums were inaugurated virtually in the districts of Tseminyu, Niuland, Noklak, and Tuensang. Rio emphasized that these stadiums are equipped with modern amenities, and similar facilities are being developed in all districts, with some receiving multiple sports infrastructure.
The stadiums were sanctioned under the Special Assistance and Innovative Programme of the State for the year 2021-22, at an average cost of Rs. 3.50 Cr per unit. The scheme will extend to 10 more multidiscipline stadiums across the state, based on the requirements and gap analysis conducted by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports.
Regarding the Chümoukedima facility, Rio declared the dedication of Chümoukedima district as the Sports and Education City. “We’re focusing on this area because Nagaland needs to develop a dedicated center for sports activities if we are to host national and international events in the future,” he emphasized.
He urged other districts to identify appropriate sectors for their growth and development, stating, “Respective elected representatives and think-tanks must evolve strategies for their own district.”
Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced the transformation of the Hornbill Futsal Festival into the Hornbill Sports Festival, featuring multiple sports. He expressed pride in the eight medals Nagaland secured at the recently held National Games in Goa and asserted, “Nagas are naturally talented and second to none in the field of games and sports.” Additionally, he disclosed plans for a felicitation program honoring the national champion sportspersons.