GOVERNOR REVIEWS YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN NAGALAND
KOHIMA, June 18: Nand Kishore Yadav chaired a review meeting of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) at the Naga Bhavan Conference Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on June 18.
During the meeting, the Department presented a comprehensive overview of its mandate, achievements, ongoing programmes, infrastructure projects, challenges and future plans related to youth empowerment and sports development in the State. The Department highlighted its efforts to promote leadership, skill development, cultural engagement, volunteerism and grassroots sports, while nurturing talented athletes for participation at the state, national and international levels.
The Governor reviewed major sporting events and youth programmes conducted during 2025–26, including the Nagaland’s Next Top Player initiative, the State-Level Pre-Subroto Tournament, National Sports Day celebrations, youth festivals, youth exchange programmes, adventure activities, women’s futsal initiatives, grassroots football development and the successful hosting of regional and national sporting events in the State.
The Department also apprised the Governor of the achievements of Nagaland sportspersons in disciplines such as taekwondo, sepak takraw, archery, boxing and pencak silat, where athletes secured medals and accolades at national and international competitions.
Reviewing the infrastructure sector, the Governor was briefed on completed and ongoing projects under various schemes, including Khelo India, the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), PM-DevINE, NESIDS-OTRI, State Plan and Innovation Schemes. The Department informed that several multipurpose indoor halls, futsal grounds, sports facilities and cultural infrastructure projects have been completed across the State, while major projects such as the Kohima Multi-Disciplinary Sports Centre are currently under implementation.
The Governor also reviewed the activities of allied wings under the Department, including the National Service Scheme (NSS), the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BS&G), the National Cadet Corps (NCC), the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) and the Engineering Wing, which collectively contribute to youth development, community engagement, leadership building and infrastructure creation.
The Department highlighted key challenges, including the need for enhanced budgetary support for grassroots and gender-responsive sports development programmes, greater opportunities for persons with disabilities in sports and stronger employment avenues for sportspersons. It also informed the Governor about future initiatives, including the proposed Chief Minister’s Sports Initiative, which aims to provide scholarships, advanced coaching and exposure opportunities for talented athletes, along with the expansion of grassroots football programmes across the State.
Appreciating the Department’s efforts in promoting youth welfare and sporting excellence, the Governor emphasised the importance of creating greater opportunities for young people to develop their talents, leadership abilities and sporting potential. He encouraged the Department to further strengthen grassroots initiatives and ensure that the benefits of youth and sports programmes reach all sections of society across Nagaland.
Senior officers of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports attended the meeting and presented detailed reports on various programmes and projects being implemented by the Department. (Source: PRO, Lok Bhavan)
