Abu Metha discusses roadmap to promote athletics with AFI officials

DIMAPUR— Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), Abu Metha had a meeting with Dr. Lalit K Bhanod, Chairman of the Planning Committee, AFI, and other officials in New Delhi on Friday, wherein they discussed roadmap to promote athletics and track and field in the northeastern region, particularly in Nagaland.

The meeting was also attended by Olympian Indian long jumper Anju Bobby George, Vice President of AFI, and Chief National Coach, Radhakrishnan, updated DIPR.

“Plans were discussed to introduce a top-level education programme for coaches and technical officials under the auspices of the AFI, to be held in Nagaland for the benefit of the region. Additionally, a special coaching camp for talented athletes, guided by national and international coaches, is also in the pipeline,” read the update.

It said that technical officials from northeastern states, who completed the AFI certification course during the capacity-building workshop held in Kohima, have been given opportunities to officiate at various national-level competitions, including the National Games and the Khelo India Games.

Nagaland Athletics Association, in collaboration with the AFI, is actively working on a roadmap to train and nurture young athletes to help them excel in athletics, it said, while highlighting the South Asian Cross Country Championships being held in the state under the guidance of AFI.

Metha, who is also Advisor to Chief Minister and chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), thanked the AFI led by President Adille Sumariwala and Planning Chairman Dr. Bhanod, for their constant support, guidance, and a special focus on the northeastern region.

He also congratulated for Indian Athletics Team’s remarkable performance at the recent Asian Athletics Championships in Thailand, where India won a record-breaking 27 medals.

The AFI was also honoured with the Best Performing Federation at the Asian Athletics Association Awards ceremony, said the update.