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Our Correspondent
Kohima, Aug. 22 (EMN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who is also the president of the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA), on Monday declared the 2nd Nagaland Olympic and Paralympic Games 2022 open at Capital Cultural Hall in Kohima.
The state’s sporting extravaganza, which began on August 22, will conclude on the 27th.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Rio maintained that over 3500 participants and officials from 16 districts will be taking part in the Nagaland Olympics and Paralympic Games 2022. He said they (crowd) have come together to promote and foster sports and promote unity and oneness among the Nagas.
The CM asserted that the inclusion of the Paralympics was intended for persons who are differently-abled, and therefore the motto “Stronger together” was chosen.
Maintaining out that games and sports are not mere entertainment or a pastime, he said states and nations vie for fame and honour through sports as it also indicates the advancement and maturity of the citizens.
‘The state government is working its best to develop infrastructures in every nook and corner and particularly in the district headquarters,’ said Rio, adding that the state is lagging behind in all spheres, particularly in sports.
Pointing out that in this year’s Commonwealth Games, India won most number of medals at an international event, he said neighbouring states are were winning medals, be it the Commonwealth or Asian Games.
He stated that the state government has realised that it must stress on games and sports to the youth as they are the hope, strength and the future. He added that sports is one discipline with many avenues that can bring name, fame and honour to oneself and the country.
The CM also advised the sportspersons not to lose hope but try hard and do their best; represent the state and the country and bring laurels home.
He said Nagas are second to none; have the talent and instinct to excel in sports, ‘yet it is a competition’. “Your best may not be enough,” he said while urging the youth to work hard.
Rio maintained that many pursue sports and follow their natural instinct to become professionals as it makes a person disciplined, dedicated and determined, which he said are the basics principles needed to become a sportsperson who will win medals.
“Sports teaches you discipline, punctuality, team spirit, oneness and camaraderie, and also, sports helps you in health and fitness, mental well-being, and therefore, whether you excel or not, you remain a fit and healthy person so that you become an asset to the state,” he said.
The chief minister said the government is trying to build its infrastructure in all the districts despite limited resources. He assured that the basic requirements would be built in the days to come, in areas and places that are yet to be covered.
He exhorted the sportspersons to work hard in order to achieve their dreams and also advised the officials and participants to keep up the spirit of sportsmanship even if they win or lose.
Oath taking and cultural presentation marked the opening ceremony of the 2nd Nagaland Olympic and Paralympic Games 2022.