CM Neiphiu Rio says Nagaland youth have talent to excel in sports

SECHÜMA — Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday said that Nagas have inherent physical prowess as well as abundant talent to excel in sports and related fields, while stressing the importance of discipline, professional training and utilisation of sports facilities.

He was addressing the inaugural function of the Sechüma Mechü Zie (playground), the village approach road under MGNREGA and foundation stone laying ceremony of the Mera-Sechü-Rau Seyie complex site in Sechüma.

Dwelling on the government’s longstanding emphasis on youth empowerment through sports, music, and promotion of the rich cultural heritage, the CM said his government has initiated indoor stadiums and laid several playgrounds with AstroTurf of international standards in various districts of the state.

He also highlighted some of the projects, including the ongoing renovation of the Khuochiezhie local ground under the Kohima Smart City initiative as well as the transformation of the old secretariat into shopping malls, hotels and business establishments.

The CM went on to inform that projects that will significantly improve road and communication networks are underway.

Mega events

Nagaland is hosting numerous events, including the ongoing Asian Music Summit, which has attracted more than 500 national and international delegates, he said.

On the upcoming Nagaland Olympic and Paralympic Games 2024, which will be held in Chümoukedima and Dimapur districts starting on February 13, Rio informed that participation from all the 16 districts will compete in the state’s biggest sporting event.

While noting the state’s recent achievements in sports — 79 medals at the Northeast Olympic Games 2022 and 8 medals at 37th National Games – he said a cabinet meeting was convened to deliberate on hosting the national games. On this, he said going ahead with the plan sans medal prospect will be embarrassing for the state, while encouraging sportspersons to demonstrate discipline and dedication.

Misappropriation of funds

Rio said that Nagaland would have witnessed a significant development today if funds allocated by the government for various programmes were utilized properly, noting that there were instances where funds were misappropriated, especially by leaders at village level.

Emphasising the importance of development, he said growth should prioritized across Nagaland.

He also acknowledged the supporters for electing the first two women legislators in the state assembly, Salhoutuonuo Kruse and Hekani Jakhalu, who were present at the event.

Minister for Horticulture and Women Resource Development, Kruse, apprised the gathering about the ongoing schemes and programmes including weaving and knitting training, as well as plans to train beauticians in batches by the department, to help people earn a livelihood.

Speaking about the playground and road projects, Neikerünuo Rutsa, Block Development Officer (BDO) of Rural Development Block, Sechü (Zubza), informed that it was successfully completed under the guidance of Minister of Rural Development, Metsübo Jamir.

She also thanked the village development board, village council, and all concerned parties for supporting the project.

Petekhrietuo Nipu, chairman of Sechüma Village Council, announced that Zieu Nipu, K Lezo Rhatsu, Zhasiu Nipu, Pelevisie Rhatsu, Kho-u Nipu, Neizo Zhünyü, as well as the families of Lt. Neilhou Rhatsu and Lt. Kodilhu Rhatsu, have generously donated land for the establishment of the playground.

A folk song was presented by Sechüma Youth Organisation, while a special number was performed by Sechü (Zubza) Youth Organisation.