Nagaland
Need to harness energy of youth — Neiphiu Rio
Our Correspondent
Kohima, March 10 (EMN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who is also the president of Nagaland Olympic Association, on Tuesday said resources of the youth must be realised and harnessed to carry the society forward to greater heights.
He was addressing the 27th Nagaland Wrestling Association Championship and first Under-16 Naga Wrestling at Kouchiezie (local ground) in Kohima as the special guest.
Rio expressed happiness that wrestling as a sport in Nagaland has gained momentum as could be seen from the series of championships and promotions, and congratulated the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA).
He also commended the visionary leadership of NWA pioneers, promoting and preserving the culture and traditions of the Nagas through the game.
“When we realise and harness the energy of youth, it is a prominent field that can gain popularity and recognition,” he said in reference to the sport as a platform for Naga youth.
Rio maintained that when someone wins and excels, it is not only that person’s glory but the community and Nagas at large as well.
According to the chief minister, proper development of rules and regulations and framing of its policy will garner more participation from across the state besides the existing units.
He also felt that enhancement of prize money at this stage is much needed and said “it is not only title” but also prize money that would ensure more attractions and rewards for the players.
Rio assured cooperation from the government to promote and develop the sport.
New
wrestling stadium
The chief minister also assured to construct a new
‘wrestling stadium’ to facilitate and encourage the sport, which he said would
be discussed and formulated soon.
In order to encourage the players, he said ‘attractive prize is required’ and donated INR 5 lakh to this year’s wrestling championship.
The chief minister said that Naga wrestling must be carried forward to the national and international arena with more attractive prizes.