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Our Correspondent
Thenyizumi, March 23 (EMN): Agi, Vevotso Lase and Vemele Thingo emerged as winners of the 1st Naga-style category wrestling in their respective categories managed by Chakhesang Wrestling Association (CWA). The Naga-style wresting category is part of the ongoing 36th Phek district sports association (PDSA) at Thenyizumi village hosted by Chokri Area Games and Sports Association (CAGSA).
Agi hailing representing Sekrezu Area Sports Association (SASA) lifted the title of winner in '65 KG and below' by defeating Cüsavoyi Chüzho who represented Chokri Area Games and Sports Association (CAGSA).
Vevotso Lase , representing CAGSA, defeated Nedulhu, who represented Chozuba Area Sports Association (CASA) in the '74 kg and below' and emerged as winner and runner-up.
In the '84 kg and below' category, Vemele Thingo representing CAGSA defeated Surhovoyi Nienu who represented the Seceku Area Sports Association (SASA) and emerged as winner and runner-up respectively.
The winners of each category received a cash prize of INR 10,000 and runners-up pocketed INR 5000.
Earlier CWA president, Vekhozo in his presidential speech, stated that ‘westernisation endangers the existence of our culture and tradition and in this regard the importance of our cultural heritage has to be taught and promoted in all available platforms’.
He added that state government has identified Naga wrestling as the indigenous game of the state while belt wrestling is on the verge of recognition by the ministry of Sports, Government of India. It is also expected to be introduced as an Olympic medal event sooner than later.
He stated that once it is introduce and recognised, Naga wrestling scenario in the state would ‘change once and for all’, and asserted that CWA would make it a priority for identification of young and promising wrestlers and provide training.
He informed that a consultative meeting was held with legislators from the community, frontal organisations on January 24, 2021 and had taken a decision to introduce wrestling (Naga wrestling, belt wrestling and free style wrestling) in all schools within Chakhesang area with the aim ‘to let young people learn and know the importance of indigenous games; to learn and know that Naga wrestling is our unique identity; to protect and promote Naga wrestling; to identify prospective wrestler at young age; to provide platform and motivate young wrestler, a sense of competitive spirit; to encourage Belt wrestling and free style wrestling’.