Under the Indian Army’s Civic Action Programme (Project Sadbhavana), a state-of-the-art futsal ground at Jakhama and community toilets at Phesama were inaugurated by SC, SM, Commanding Officer of the 164 Naga Regiment, Col Gaurav Singh, in the presence of MLA and DPDB chairman of Kohima, Kevipodi Sophie, MLA.
The facilities were officially dedicated to the villagers of Jakhama and Phesama to promote sports culture and sanitation in the region. Speaking at the inaugural programme, Kevipodi Sophie, MLA expressed gratitude to Col Gaurav Singh and the Indian Army team at Zakhama Military Station for their contribution to infrastructure development, benefitting the Southern Angami area.
Highlighting the sports-loving nature of Southern Angami youth, Kevipodi Sophie noted that lack of proper training fields had limited their opportunities in sports. He recalled past achievements where local athletes had represented the state and nation at national-level events. The MLA hoped that the new futsal ground would reignite the sporting spirit among the youth, encouraging them to strive for excellence.
He stressed that the facility is meant not just for Jakhama but for the entire Kohima district, aiming to nurture talent and strengthen the sports culture. He urged the youth to take care of the infrastructure, maintain discipline, and treat it with a sense of ownership and pride.
The MLA also congratulated the football team of the 164 Naga Regiment, Jakhama, for winning the Northeast Sentinels Football Cup in Shillong. He commended Col Gaurav Singh for his leadership and concern for youth development, particularly supporting Naga boys in the regiment.
In his address, Col Gaurav Singh shared that the idea for the project was proposed by MLA Kevipodi Sophie, and the Indian Army committed to its implementation. He praised the MLA’s vision for community welfare and assured that more meaningful initiatives would follow under his leadership.
Col Singh encouraged the youth to utilize the futsal ground wisely and avoid harmful substances like alcohol. He explained that “Sadbhavana” means harmony, reinforcing that the Indian Army aims to build mutual trust and cooperation with the people through such community initiatives.