Aizawl, May 20: Lalnghinglova Hmar has said the Mizoram government is intensifying efforts to strengthen sports development at the grassroots level with a long-term objective of preparing athletes capable of representing India at the Olympic Games.
Speaking at the inauguration of the P C Gabriel Lalliansanga Memorial MBA Junior Official Badminton Championship in Aizawl, the minister stated that the government is restructuring the state’s sports ecosystem to identify promising talent at an early stage and provide systematic support for their development.
Hmar said the state has prioritised eight Olympic disciplines — Archery, Badminton, Boxing, Hockey, Judo, Taekwondo, Weightlifting and Wrestling — where the state believes it can build competitive strength and nurture future athletes.
Encouraging young players to aim higher, the minister urged them to develop what he described as an “Olympic vision” and aspire to compete for the country at the highest international level.
Highlighting the state’s performance in badminton, Hmar said Mizoram has already witnessed considerable success in junior and sub-junior competitions, producing several talented athletes and champions over the years.
He added that strengthened coaching systems, improved infrastructure and structured training programmes could further boost the state’s performance not only in badminton but also across other sports disciplines.
The minister also described sports as an important contributor to both physical and mental well-being, stating that its impact extends beyond competition and plays a significant role in youth development.
The state government’s renewed focus on grassroots sports development is intended to create a sustainable pathway for nurturing future athletes while strengthening Mizoram’s sporting culture over the long term.
