Senapati: The XXIIIrd Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me (PNTM) Tournament was graced by Transport Minister Khashim Vashum as the chief guest. Earlier, Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh was supposed to grace the occasion but reportedly cancelled his trip due to sudden violence that occurred in Moreh, a border town on Wednesday morning.
Also Read | Global Naga Forum Extends Warm Wishes to Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra
In his welcome address, Dominic Azuna, convenor, COC stated that the gathering is not merely as individuals but as a united community foiled by the collective love of sports. As the student body stands on the brink of an exalerating journey, the convenor urged to acknowledge the significance of the moment that lies ahead beyond the chairs of the crowd and the powers of the competitors. The convenor urged to celebrate the essence of sportsmanship, a spirit that transcends boundaries and unites the people. In the arena that lies before, the convenor stated that dreams will take flight and determination will meet in the match. It is not merely a gathering but an embodiment of dedication, discipline, honour and the pursuit of victory.
Asahrii Clement, president, PNTM in his presidential address expressed his gratitude to all concerned for their full cooperation and support for the successful conduct of the tournament. With the theme, “Nurturing talents,” the president asserted that the student body wants to promote the youth through development of various skills among the youth. Encouraging the players, the president urged them to show the best discipline during the tournament and urged the units to join hands together for the growth of the student body. The president also invited all to come and witness the games and encourage the players through their presence.
Also Read | Manipur: 3 Meitei Pangals thrashed after kidnap by unidentified armed miscreants
Isaac Thaoveinii, Tribunal General, PNTM read out the Eulogy of the student body mentioning the student body is running in its 48th year. Out of 24 presidents served in the student body, 5 of them were stated to have left this world. Later, the student leader led to give honour to the foregone leaders by giving a two minute silence to the gathering.
The chief guest apologised on behalf of chief minister N. Biren Singh for his inability to attend the programme. However, he gave assurance on behalf of the CM of bringing development to the area. He urged every village to identify a site for a playground so as to avail financial assistance from the government. He continued that the state government will avail a sum of rupees twenty lakhs for eco-tourism and home stays in the village though the central government may not render financial help. He further said that if required additional funds may be sought from PWD for renovation and repair of the Inspection Bungalow. He also conveyed that the ring road connecting the villages which was cancelled in the programme for the year 2021-22 shall be added to the programme for the year 2022-23 after the court case settlement.
Also Read | Tribal lifestyle contributes to ecological balance: President Murmu
The minister mentioned that various developmental projects have been launched in the hill districts including different road connections. The minister also sought the cooperation of all for effective implementation of the various developmental projects taken up by the state government. He appealed to the players to maintain game spirit, discipline, hardwork and patience. He also appealed to the gathering to give utmost co-operation and support to their elected representatives so as to bring maximum development to the area.
Memorial stones were unveiled by the chief guest at the beginning of the program.
38 units are taking part in the tournament in various games like football, volleyball, basketball, Naga Indigenous wrestling, badminton, track and field athletics and individual games that will continue till February 2.
Also Read | Minister Govindas Calls for Emotional Binding Among the Indigenous people of Manipur
About The Author
