Correspondent
KOHIMA, MARCH 4
EMPHASISING the need to promote indigenous Naga games and sports, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today called upon the sports associations, especially the Nagaland Wrestling Association, to document the Naga style wrestling.
Addressing the jam-packed wrestling fans in the 10,000 seating capacity Kohima local ground (Khouciezie), Rio said Naga style wrestling is the most loved game of the Naga people. Though it is being competed only by the three Tenyimia communities – Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang, but people other tribes too eagerly witness the competition.
He said wrestling is not only an indigenous sports of the Naga people, but it is the indigenous game for other communities within and outside the country while it is also an event of the Olympic.
Nonetheless, he said the Naga style wrestling is unique to the Naga people and therefore the styles, techniques, rules and regulations needs to be documented in order to popularize the game among other Naga tribes as well as outside world.
Asserting all possible support from the state government, Rio, who is also the president of Nagaland Olympic Association and a keen sports lover himself, announced that separate fund would be earmarked for conducting football, cricket and Naga wrestling league tournaments.
He also announced that with a view to promote and encourage sportspersons in the state, the State Cabinet during its recent meeting has decided to promote archer Chekrovolu Swüro to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).
Chekrovolu is the first and only Naga lady to have represented India at the 2012 London Olympic Games. She is the second Naga to have participated in Olympic Games after the legendry Naga Olympian Dr. T. Ao in 1948.
Rio further encouraged sportsperson at all levels to take up sports as a profession as it has lots of scope and avenue for employment and fame.
The inaugural function commenced with Rio unveiling the NWA flag. Former president of NWA Keku Zeliang lit the tournament torch which was carried by NWA 2012 champion Kezhalelie Keretsü.
NWA president Neikhrolo Khalo delivered the presidential address while technical secretary Hukhoneyi Soho administered oath to the participants.
Chakhesang Cultural Research Institute, Chetheba entertained the gathering with a folk song.
