Advisor, Youth Resources & Sports, S Keoshu Yimchunger, and Advisor, Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu on Thursday inaugurated “Parkside Arena”, a Futsal Turf and Children’s Park, at Tolüvi Village, Dimapur.
Addressing the gathering, Yimchunger emphasized the importance of sports in shaping the future of younger generation, pointing that the central government was actively promoting sports to keep youth engaged in productive activities and away from negative influences.
He also highlighted the central government’s growing focus on the North East in the field of sports, adding that various initiatives were being undertaken to enhance opportunities for athletes from the region.
Speaking high on the role of sports in the present context, he challenged young Naga athletes to bring laurels to the country, and stressed that sporting achievements would not only bring recognition to the state, but also contribute to its development. Here, he however cautioned youth against being seasonal players, urging them to strive for professionalism.
Yimchunger also dwelled on the recently launched Nagaland Super League, expressing confidence that it would serve as a platform for talented players to represent the state at higher levels.
Speaking on the Khelo India initiative, he reiterated that the scheme has many policies to support and promote sports among children across various categories. “In spirit, everyone loves sports, whether they can play or not”, he remarked, and urged parents to encourage their children to pursue sports as it offers multiple career opportunities.
Advisor, Hekani Jakhalu, who represents 3 Dimapur-III Assembly Constituency, assured that she is committed to working for the welfare and development of the area.
She acknowledged the support rendered by the community, party leaders and supporters, adding that her efforts alone would not be enough, and further requested all to continue their support and cooperation.
Speaking on the significance of the recently launched “Parkside Arena”, she said that it would serve as a training ground for young athletes, while also functioning as a revenue generating facility.
Dwelling on the reason for privatizing the park, she emphasized on the need for sustainability, stating that without revenue generation, the park could not be maintained and would eventually fall into disuse.
She informed that the park would be privatized, with a provision that the entity managing the facility must contribute Rs. One Lakh annually to the village council for a period of five years after which negotiations could be made.
She further expressed hope that the new facility would help youth stay fit and enhance their sporting skills. She furhter informed that the arena was constructed under the “Special Assistance Scheme”.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by chairman, Tolüvi Village Council, Bohoshe, invocation was offered by pastor, Tolüvi Baptist Church, Atoshe Awomi. A short speech was delivered by working president, NDPP 3 Dimapur III A/C, Tohoshe, and a special performance by Vilika Aye.