The inaugural event of the 15-day 22nd Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Meh (PNTM), Tournament 2021 was held today at Daphao ground, Purul Village, Senapati district hosted by Purul Youth & Students’ Organisation (PYSO) under the theme ‘Engraving Youth’. The tournament is held once in 3 years at the end of a president’s tenure.
The event was graced by Losii Dikho, Hon’ble Minister, PHED, Printing & Stationery Govt. of Manipur as Chief Guest and M. L. Markson, Former Chairman, ADC, Senapati district as Guest of Honour, along with the Chief Host of the event D. D. Thaisii, Hon’ble MLA, 47-Karong AC & Former President, PNTM.
The event consisting of 58 villages with more than 3000 sportspersons kicked off with an invocation by Rev. P. James, Executive Secy. PNBA after which the Union flag was hosted by the Chief Guest. Kh. Vahrii Duo Convenor, Organising Committee, welcomed the crowd with a speech stating that the Poumai community should work on seeking cooperation from each other leaving an imprint of unity to many during the 15-day tournament. Greetings from D. Dailord Pao, President, PNU, Pung Mark, President SDSA and Razeba Students’ Union made impression in the event followed by a minute of silence in remembrance of Lt. Rasii Rashii who contributed his life for the welfare of Poumai Youths.
Addressing the public at the inaugural ceremony of quadrennial, the Chief Host warmly welcomed and apologised for any inconveniences faced by the campers and players during their stay. While briefing the problems and encouraging the youths to work with integrity and unity, he expounded on the events that took place in past years.
The Guest of Honour motivated the young audience with his vibrant speech which encouraged the youth to showcase their talents not only in studies but in other fields. He remarked character and discipline are the main assets of a sportsperson and that the players must focus on sportsmanship and discipline.
The Chief Guest congratulated the achievers in various sporting domains and students contributing in many platforms. Affirming that everything is possible upon the determination of an individual he reminisced the time when Poumai & Mao students were under one umbrella and how they were united as one. He further mentioned the crucial role of the elders in enlightening the youth to seize a critical role in the society.
The event also lauded the achievers in various sports so as to encourage the mass that education is not only the end for dreamers and achievers. With the Lighting of Torch and Oath Taking ceremony by Games & Sports Secretary, PNTM, the 22nd PNTM Tournament was declared open by the Chief Guest.
An exhibition match between Razeba Students’ Union Executives and PNTM Executives was played to commemorate the opening of the 15-day tourney (19 January – 2 February, 2021) at Purul Village.