Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday took part in the International Olympic Day Run and Tree Plantation programme organised by the Manipur Olympic Association at the Olympic Bhavan complex in Khuman Lampak, Imphal.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted Manipur’s rich sporting heritage and underlined the importance of social harmony among the State’s 36 communities. He said Manipuri athletes have consistently played a vital role in India’s representation at major international competitions and have brought laurels to the country through their achievements.
Singh said the establishment of the country’s first National Sports University in Manipur reflected national recognition of the State’s contribution to Indian sports. He added that infrastructure work at the university is nearing completion and noted that he had recently inspected the campus.
Recalling his own days as a Taekwondo player, the Chief Minister said that while winning medals and representing the nation at events such as the Asian Games and Olympics remain important, sports also help inculcate discipline and values. He urged young athletes to respect their coaches and teachers, foster unity among communities and cultivate determination and perseverance in all aspects of life.
Home, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam, who also attended the programme, said India is preparing for the 2036 Olympic Games and is focusing on identifying and nurturing talent across different disciplines and states.
He pointed out that Manipur, despite its relatively small population, has produced 19 Olympians, describing it as a remarkable achievement. The minister said most of the sports equipment currently in use dates back to the 1999 National Games and no longer meets present-day standards. He stated that the Chief Minister has assured an allocation of Rs 5 crore during the current financial year for the procurement of modern sports equipment.
Konthoujam also appealed to sportspersons to maintain discipline, stay away from drugs and strive to become healthy and responsible citizens.
During the programme, the Chief Minister flagged off the International Olympic Day Run and joined other dignitaries in a tree plantation drive.
Among those present were Heirok MLA and Manipur Olympic Association adviser Dr Th. Radheshyam Singh, Keishamthong MLA and Manipur Basketball Association president Nishikant Sapam, Manipur Olympic Association president Sunil Elangbam, officials of the association, sportspersons and athletes.
