RUPA, 26 Jul: Governor KT Parnaik called for sustained investment in sports infrastructure, coaching, and exposure opportunities to help young athletes in the state realise their full potential.
Inaugurating the ‘Rupa Football League- Independence Cup Football Tournament’ at Gyaptang Stadium here in West Kameng district on Sunday, the governor suggested establishing a dedicated football academy at the venue. He said that the presence of a football academy would facilitate scientific coaching, regular competitions, and effective talent scouting, enabling promising footballers from the region to realise their full potential.
He said that quality sporting infrastructure serves as a catalyst for nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of excellence in sports.
“A well-developed stadium naturally attracts qualified coaches, trainers, and sports professionals, creating an enabling environment for systematic training and talent development,” the governor said.
He hailed the inclusion of a women’s football league a significant step towards promoting gender equality and empowering young women through sports.
“Participation of women enriches the sporting ecosystem and inspires future generations to pursue their dreams with confidence,” Parnaik said.
Calling upon players to compete with passion, integrity, and sportsmanship, the governor said that victory and defeat are part and parcel of any game.
The governor exhorted the youths to embrace sports as a pathway to discipline, leadership, healthy living, and nation-building.
Highlighting the transformative power of football, the governor said, “The sport teaches invaluable life lessons such as teamwork, perseverance, resilience, respect for rules, and the ability to perform under pressure.”
He also said that sports provide a constructive avenue for channelling youthful energy, building confidence, and developing character.
He urged parents, coaches, and community members to continue supporting young athletes in their pursuit of excellence.
Reiterating the role of youths in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, the governor said that every goal scored, every challenge overcome, and every act of fair play contributes to building a stronger nation.
Referring to the growing concern of substance abuse and other social challenges, Parnaik said that sports offer a healthy and meaningful alternative, helping young people develop positive habits and a strong sense of purpose.
The governor lauded the Rupa Town Club and the Indian Army for organising the tournament. He commended the Indian Army for its continued contribution to youth development, community outreach, and nation-building initiatives in border areas.
Local MLA Tseten Chombay, Thrizino-Buragaon MLA Tenzin Nyima Glow and the GOC of 5 Mtn Div, Maj Gen Amit Nautiyal, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of sports in promoting youth development, fostering discipline and teamwork, and strengthening community bonds.
They also underscored the significance of such initiatives in reinforcing the spirit of national integration and cooperation between the local communities and the Indian Army.
West Kameng DC Dr Dilip Kumar, SP Dr DW Thongon, former minister DK Thongdok, Rajya Sainik Board’s former secretary Rinchin Musabi,Army and SSB officers, and panchayat leaders attended the inaugural function.
Being jointly organised by the Indian Army and the Rupa Town Club under the theme ‘Say No to Drugs, Yes to Football’, 16 teams, including Indian Army formations in the Kameng sector and teams from across the Northeastern states and neighbouring country Nepal are participating in the tournament.
In the opening match, Tenga United defeated Khrimey FC 3-0.
The final will be held on 15 August.
The winning team and the runners-up will be awarded Rs 4 lakh and the Rs 2 lakh, respectively, along with trophies. (Lok Bhavan)
