Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The Sports Authority of India (SAI), North East Regional Centre (NERC), Imphal, organised a “Sundays on Cycle” programme on Sunday to celebrate Commonwealth Games medallists and promote a drug-free, active lifestyle.
The event began with a cycling rally from the SAI Complex at Takyel, proceeding towards Lamsang before concluding back at the complex.
During the programme, Commonwealth Games medal-winning sportspersons from Manipur were felicitated for their achievements.
Honored athletes included:
Weightlifting: Mirabai Chanu, Bidyarani Devi, Khumucham Sanjita Chanu, Kunjarani Devi, Ngangbam Soniya Chanu, W. Nandini Devi, Yumnam Renu Bala Devi
Judo: Likmabam Sushila Chanu, Thoudam Kalpana Devi, Sunibala Huidrom, Chongtham Jina Devi
Cycling: Ch. Rameshori Devi, K. Suchitra Devi, O. Bikram, Helen
Hockey:Waikhom Surajlata Devi, Kh. Tingongleima Chanu, Pakpi Devi Ngasepam, Chanchan Thokchom, Sanggoi
*Boxing:* Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, Laishram Sarita Devi
*Other sports:* Mayanglambam Bimoljit (Wushu), Kh. Madhushumita (Karate), Yumnam (Sepak Takraw)
The event was attended by MLA Thounaojam Basanta Kumar, Padma Shri awardee Nameirakpam Kunjarani Devi, and SAI NERC Imphal Regional Director C. Dhandapani.
Speaking at the event, MLA Thounaojam Basanta Kumar said many talented sportspersons from Manipur had faced hardships and financial difficulties in pursuing their careers. He said public support for initiatives like “Sundays on Cycle” would help encourage and nurture young athletes while promoting a healthy and drug-free society.
He added that collective efforts are needed to build a physically active and disciplined society and to inspire more youths to take up sports and healthy lifestyles.
