The Nagaland University Students’ Union (Lumami) flagged off the 27th Annual Varsity Sports Meet 2026 under the theme “Legacy in Motion: Focus, Execute, Triumph” at the university campus on 11th March 2026.
The opening program commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor, Nagaland University followed by the hoisting of the flag and the singing of the university anthem. The event continued with the traditional torch relay and the ceremonial lighting of the sports flame.
The programme was chaired by Kivini H. Kinimi, Women Coordinator of NUSU (L). The invocation prayer was delivered by Hiloleh, Prayer Secretary of the Tenyimie Students Fellowship.
Delivering the welcome address, B. Liken Phom, Vice President of NUSU (L), felicitated the Chief Guest andstudents who represented the university at the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) in various sporting events. A special performance was presented by Kimennaro Pongen from the Department of Economics.
In his address, Chief Guest Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik expressed pride in the growing representation of Nagaland University students in AIU sporting events, noting that the number of participants has increased steadily over the years. He described the students as competent, efficient, and dynamic, stating that they only require opportunities to showcase their talent and potential. He further remarked that his recognition outside Nagaland is largely due to the achievements of the university’s students. Sharing his vision for the future, he spoke about the need for more sports galleries and infrastructural development, adding that while funds may not be a major constraint, logistical challenges and time often pose difficulties.
Highlighting the cultural richness of the state, he described Nagaland as a unique land of diverse traditions and cultures, encouraging students to serve as ambassadors in promoting and strengthening this identity. The oath-taking ceremony was led by M. Yeanglem Konyak, Games and Sports Secretary of NUSU (L), after which the Chief Guest officially declared the sports meet open. The Varsity Sports Meet will go on from 11th-14th March, 2026. (Published as received)