Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal– The Manipur Olympic Association (MOA) hosted the International Olympic Day Run with Tree Plantation programme on Tuesday morning at the courtyard of Olympic Bhavan, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, Imphal.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended as Chief Guest and flagged off the run. He also took part in the tree plantation drive along with other dignitaries.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister said Manipur is a land where 36 communities have lived together in harmony, and no Indian contingent at major international sporting events is complete without Manipuri players. He noted that the state has consistently brought laurels to the nation through the achievements of its sportspersons.
Khemchand highlighted that in recognition of the state’s contribution to Indian sports, the country’s first National Sports University was established in Manipur. He said the university’s infrastructure is nearing completion and that he had recently inspected the campus.
Drawing on his own experience as a Taekwondo player, the Chief Minister said that while winning medals and representing India at events like the Asian Games and Olympics matter, the greatest lesson from sports is discipline. He urged young athletes to respect their teachers and coaches, maintain harmony across communities, and cultivate determination and perseverance in sports, education, and life.
Minister for Home, Youth Affairs and Sports, Govindas Konthoujam, who attended as Special Guest of Honour, said India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympic Games and is identifying and nurturing talent across states. He pointed out that despite its small population, Manipur has produced 19 Olympians – a remarkable achievement compared to many larger states.
Konthoujam added that much of the existing sports equipment dates back to the 5th National Games in 1999 and is no longer up to current standards. He informed that CM Khemchand has assured Rs 5 crore in the current financial year for procuring modern sports equipment. He also urged players to stay disciplined, avoid drugs, and strive to be healthy and responsible citizens.
The programme began with the assembly of invitees at 7:00 a.m., followed by the arrival of dignitaries at 7:20 a.m. and the presentation of rosettes and lengyanphi to VVIPs. MOA President Sunil Elangbam delivered the welcome and keynote address, with speeches also made by the Special Guest of Honour and Chief Guest.
Other attendees included Dr. Th. Radheshyam Singh, MLA (Heirok AC) and Advisor, MOA; MLA Nishikant Sapam, Keishamthong AC and President, Manipur Basketball Association; Dr. R.K. Nimai Singh, Retd. IAS; K. Baruni Singh, Vice President, MOA; Dr. M. Veto, MCS Director, YAS; and C. Dhandapani, Regional Director, SAI NERC. Officials and representatives of MOA, along with sportspersons and athletes, were also present.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri G.A. Sanatomba Sharma, Vice President, MOA, followed by light refreshments.
