Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio urged the youth to carry on Dr. T. Ao’s legacy in the field of sports and stated that the government is committed to provide better infrastructures in all the districts. According to a DIPR report, the chief minister speaking at the inaugural programme of the 23rd Dr. T. Ao Inter District Championships Trophy (football) on Tuesday at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground, Tuensang.
He gave a speech at the event’s opening and expressed his gratitude to the Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA) and the organizing committee for taking the initiative to host the state’s most renowned competition. Rio continued, saying that this trophy was meant to honor Dr. T. Ao, a legendary player who led the Indian football team to victory in the 1948 London Olympics and was highly sought after by European football clubs. Dr. T. Ao was quite successful in the neighboring states of Assam and Manipur as well as in the well-known Mohun Bagan Club.
In addition, Rio pledged to support women in sports within the state and mentioned that Nagaland proudly participated in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, where Hokato Hotozhe Sema took home the bronze medal and numerous other Naga athletes excelled at the national level. He urged the young people to achieve success by self-control and commitment, where there are no limits to what one can accomplish. Additionally, the chief minister pledged to electrify Loyem Memorial Ground in Tuensang and add extra galleries and a security wall. Kiphire was defeated 10-0 by Tuensang in the first game.
Previously, MLA and Planning Committee convener Lima Onen gave the welcoming address; K. Neibou Sekhose gave the presidential address; and MLA and Advisor Youth Resources and Sports, A. Keoshu Yimkhiung, gave a brief speech. Along with the chief minister were C. L. John, Minister of Forests, Environment, and Climate Change; P. Bashangmongba Chang, Minister of Housing and Mechanical Engineering; Mhathung Yanthan, Advisor of Agriculture; Benei Lamthui, MLA; Imtichoba, MLA; and a host of dignitaries.
