The Nagaland Shooting Sports Association (NSSA), in collaboration with the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, has launched a two-week free training and competition programme under the theme “Sports for All.” Scheduled from August 22 to 30, the event is being held at the Temjen Toy Indoor Shooting Range, Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex, Duncan, Dimapur. The opening ceremony was chaired by Vilivi H. Sheqi.
The Special Guest for the programme was Kethosituo Sekhose, Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland. Speaking on the occasion, Sekhose observed that shooting has always been deeply rooted within the Naga community and is now gradually gaining wider recognition as the state invests in sports infrastructure and youth engagement. He noted that while firearms were initially invented for warfare, shooting has evolved into a sport that demands discipline, focus and strong mental preparation. Sekhose also encouraged aspiring athletes, stating that an indoor stadium has been developed to provide a safe and supportive environment for training. He further emphasized that athletes should not face barriers in pursuing their passion, with infrastructure development already underway in multiple districts.
Acknowledging the high cost of the discipline, the NSSA has introduced this free coaching initiative to provide equal opportunities for young boys and girls, regardless of financial background. Officials also pointed out that with the sports industry currently valued at 500 million dollars, the government views sports as a sector with potential for growth and investment. Youth were urged to participate actively, as sports today extend beyond recreation into a promising career industry.
Guest of Honor Neivikuolie Khatsu, Assistant Secretary General of the Nagaland Olympic Association, also addressed the gathering. Speaking on behalf of the Association, he stressed the values of discipline, commitment and focus in every athlete’s life. Khatsu remarked that athletes must “formalize their mind, stay straight and stay targeted” in order to achieve success. He added that vision, perseverance and proper time management are essential to excel in sports. Highlighting the role of social influence, he reminded athletes to choose their company wisely. He also encouraged them with the belief that sports can be the “shortest way to become a superstar” if pursued with dedication.
Chief Host J.I. Yaden, former IGP and Director of Vigilance and Working President of NSSA, shared the history of shooting sports in Nagaland, recalling the Kohima Rifle Club formed in 1974 and the Nagaland State Rifle Association established in 1991. He explained that the merger of associations in 2019 created the NSSA, which has since organized events like the Hornbill Shooting Championship and provided free training. With government support, modern facilities were inaugurated at the Dimapur Indoor Stadium in December 2022. Yaden expressed optimism that these initiatives will help Nagaland’s young shooters compete at national and international levels.
The programme began with an invocation by Yanbemo Lotha, Senior Associate Pastor of Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur, followed by a welcome address and speeches. The Special Guest then fired the ceremonial ‘First Shot,’ officially declaring the training and competition open. (With DIPR inputs)
