SENAPATI: The 34th Edition of the Maralui Karalimei Swijoikang (MKS) Sports Meet 2026 was formally inaugurated on Tuesday at the Astro Turf Ground, Senapati, under the theme “Evolve Together.” The 10-day sports meet, scheduled from January 5 to 15, witnessed the participation of 31 teams representing 48 Maram villages.
The inaugural function was graced by Kekhriehloulie Yhome, MLA of Northern Angami-I Constituency and Advisor for School Education & SCERT, Government of Nagaland, as the Chief Guest. The event began with the unveiling of the monolith by the Chief Guest, followed by a traditional cultural performance “Sabi-Bi” from Willong, led by an elder, symbolizing unity and heritage.
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In his welcome address, MKS president P Ngouning Mathew recalled that Maralui Karalimei Swijoikang, founded in 1961, was established to serve students and promote unity among the Maram community. He emphasized that sports is not merely about competition but a platform to foster discipline, unity, courage and mutual respect among youths.
Former Deputy Speaker of Manipur, K Raina, encouraged young athletes to persevere, stating, “The greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is to try one more time.” Referring to Manipur as the “powerhouse of sports,” he urged participants to cultivate discipline and consistency.
Francis Ngajokpa, former Manipur minister, also addressed the gathering and extended greetings to the participants, encouraging unity and sportsmanship among the youths.
Delivering the keynote address, Kekhriehloulie Yhome extended New Year greetings and reflected on the community’s identity and progress. He said, “We are an ancient people without written history, yet rich in culture and tradition.” Emphasizing the balance between tradition and modernity, he added, “As we embrace modernity, we must also preserve our rich past.”
Highlighting the importance of education and sports, Yhome noted, “Education is liberating us, and sports teaches discipline, resilience and teamwork.” He also stressed the need for healthy lifestyles among youths, saying, “Our forefathers lived on slow food and hard work, sweating remains the best solution for good health.”
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The function was attended by several dignitaries, including the president of Maram Union, president of Maram Women Union, former ministers and legislators, church leaders, advisors of MKS, sports officials from the Senapati District Olympic Association, representatives of the NPO Team, Miss Barak 2025, president of Women Senapati District Association,and president of Southern Angami Youth Organisation along with his team, youth organisations, and other invited guests.
The programme also featured fusion dance performances and the Harmonious Steps by Lairouching Unit, adding colour to the ceremony. The inauguration concluded with the lighting of the torch, followed by an oath-taking ceremony by the Chief Guest officially declaring the 34th MKS Sports Meet 2026 open.