Nagaland signs MoU to relocate SAI Training Centre to MDSC Dimapur, boosting sports infrastructure, coaching facilities and athlete development.
DIMAPUR — The Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex (MDSC) in Dimapur is set to become home to Sports Authority of India (SAI) Training Centre after the state government and SAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday to relocate the facility.
According to a DIPR update, the MoU was signed during a programme at the Chief Minister's Residential Complex in Kohima.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described the agreement as the beginning of "a new chapter" in Nagaland's sporting journey, adding that the relocation was achieved through years of sustained efforts to strengthen the state's sports ecosystem and expand opportunities for young athletes.
He said that the new training centre would provide quality coaching, modern residential facilities and scientific support systems, benefiting athletes from Nagaland as well as the wider Northeast region.
Rio also expressed satisfaction over the ongoing SAI infrastructure projects at the MDSC in Dimapur, stating that they would further enhance the state's high-performance training ecosystem.
Highlighting the government's continued investment in sports, the chief minister said that Nagaland has been focusing on modern sports infrastructure, sports science, grassroots competitions, athlete welfare and capacity building. He also recalled the inauguration of 16 new sports infrastructure projects earlier this month, with several more in the pipeline.
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Speaking on behalf of SAI, Deputy Director General Majushree Dayanand described the occasion as a landmark in the partnership between the government of Nagaland and SAI. She appreciated the state government for providing space for the relocated training centre and facilitating the establishment of a Centre of Excellence.
Stressing that Nagaland possesses immense sporting talent, she urged the community to view sports as a viable career option and emphasised the role of sports in shaping responsible and productive citizens.
Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S Keoshu Yimkhiung and Nagaland Olympic Association Secretary General and Athletics Federation of India Vice President Abu Metha also spoke at the event.