Sports – Page 5 – Manipur News

NE games

Imphal, Jan 3 NNN : The 27th North-East Games, 2012-13 will be held in Imphal from February 21-24 and the first meeting of the organizing committee of the sports event chaired by the Chief Minister was held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat here on Thursday. Manipur Government will organize the event that will be participated by eight Northeastern states including Sikkim and 2,000 players including officials from the region will take part it, M Prithiviraj, Parliamentary Secretary, Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Manipur, said He said the participants will compete in 10 different disciplines—athletic, boxing, judo, tae-kwondo, weightlifting, football, badminton, table tennis, wrestling and hockey.
A state level organizing committee for the games was constituted yesterday and its first meeting was held at the Chief Minister’s Conference Hall on Thursday, he informed, adding Chairman of the 30-member committee is Chief Minister O Ibobi.
He added the meeting discussed on various ways to ensure smooth conduct of the sports event and make it successful. It also decided to start refurbishing of hostels for players from January 4, he further said. The event will be organized at three different places—Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, Polo Ground and Eastern Ground, Prithiviraj who is also the working chairman of the games added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ne-games/

Mega marathon

The seventh mega marathon organized by UPF will be held on February 17.
Disclosing this, BM Yhimar president, UPF while talking to media said there will be two categories viz. men and women open. Those who stood first, second, third positions will be gives Rs. 30 thousands, 20 and 15 thousands.
Rs. 2000 each will also be given as consolation prize to those who stood positions from 4 to 15.
There will be 11 sub-committees for the marathon, he further told the media.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mega-marathon/

First NE Mt Everest Expedition

AIZAWL, Dec 11: The First North East India on top of the World (Mt. Everest) Expedition 2013 Pre-Expedition Camp organized by Sports & Youth Services Department has kick-started today and will continue till December 15 in Mizoram.
The flag-off programme of the Pre-Expedition Camp was held at Youth Hostel, Luangmual at 7:30 am. today.
The flag-off programme was conducted by Lalzirmawia Chhangte, Director, Sports & Youth Services Department, who delivered a welcome address to participants from other states, while the members themselves had self-introduction.
Chief Guest R. Lalvena IAS, Secretary, Sports & Youth Services, Government of Mizoram spoke words of advice to the team members, after which he flagged-off the Pre-Expedition Camp. The Team will later be flagged off again by Manipur Chief Minister on 25th Feb 2013 from Imphal, after which on Dt. 20th March 2013, they will be flagged off again from Rashtrapati Bhavan by India President.
The Expedition Team leader is Dr. Surjit Singh from Manipur. There are 2 members from Mizoram, of which Vanlalliana, Adventure Organiser, Sports & Youth Services will be the Base Camp manager, while David Zohmangaiha is appointed as Climber-cum-Secretary. 17 persons have been selected for the team members, of which Anshu Jam from Arunachal Pradesh had scaled Mt. Everest twiced already, and Chingkheinganba, 16 years of age from Manipur is the youngest member of the team.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/first-ne-mt-everest-expedition/

3 Corps Complements Senapati Boys

MNS:- Seven participants and their coach from Senapati represented Manipur in the 25th ‘Jeet Kune Do’ Multi Martial Arts National Championship 2012 which was held from 24th to 27th November in Indira Gandhi Stadium, New Delhi. The participants have done proud to the State and Senapati District, by winning three Gold, one Silver and two Bronze medal in different categories of the competition.
Lt Gen AK Sahni, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps met the participants at Senapati and congratulated them for their achievements. He complemented the gold medallists who have been selected to represent India in International arena next year. Some of the children expressed their desire to join Indian Armed Forces, on that the General Officer assured that all possible guidance and support will be provided to fulfil the dream of the youth to join Indian Army as officers and soldiers. The Corps Commander conveyed that Manipur has the history of producing renowned sportspersons who have done proud to the Nation.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/3-corps-complements-senapati-boys/

Suspension of Indian Olympic Association by International Olympic Committee

MNS:- Following is the statement of Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports:
“The decision taken by International Olympic Committee (IOC) at its Executive Board meeting on 4th December 2012 to suspend Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is very unfortunate. Reasons cited by IOC for suspension of IOA are IOA’s failure to comply with the Olympic Charter and its statutes, failure to inform the IOC in a timely manner, and as a protective measure against Government interference in the IOA’s election process. Executive Board of IOC has also confirmed that the IOA is not entitled to hold any elections until all pending issues are resolved and the Executive Board decides to lift the suspension. With this decision of IOC, IOA will no longer be entitled to exercise any activity or right, including financial support, conferred upon it by the Olympic Charter or the IOC until the suspension is lifted by the Executive Board.
The Government of India strongly feels that the IOC’s decision to attribute suspension to Government interference in the IOA’s election process is entirely misplaced, as the National Sports Development Code includes such age and tenure guidelines for office-bearers of Sports Bodies as are enshrined in the Olympic Charter itself. They are similar to the practices followed by the IOC and are drawn from the Constitution of the IOC and have been upheld by the Courts of Law in India. All that the Sports Code seeks to achieve is to ensure that the election of the IOA and others sports bodies are fair, transparent and in consonance with the Olympic Charter.
In fact, it is not the Sports Code, but the IOA’s constitution which is not aligned with the Olympic Charter. The IOA had agreed to amend its constitution in 2010, but has failed to bring about the necessary amendments in the past 2 years. Had this been done, there would have been no cause for intervention by the IOC.
The Government is also keen that the principles of ethics & good governance enshrined in the Olympic Charter should be rigidly adhered to in the elections of the IOA.
It was with the intention of resolving the impasse that the Government offered to hold a meeting with the IOC for discussing issues of good governance and fair election processes in Indian sports bodies.
The Government reiterates that it is ready to discuss with the IOC and the IOA all issues related to the Sports Code and its compatibility with the Olympic Charter. Government will take all possible measures to protect the interests of Indian sportspersons so that they can continue to participate in international sports meets under the Indian National Flag.
The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Jitendra Singh will also hold discussions with all stakeholders, including the National Sports Federations, the eminent sportspersons, persons from civil society etc in order to chart a way out of the situation created by the action of the IOC”.

AR senior archers lift state trophy

Mail News Service
Imphal, Dec 1 : Assam Rifles Archery Team being trained under HQ 9 Sector, AR under HQ IGAR(S) participated in various events in the 23rd Senior (Indian Round, Recurve & Compound) State Archery Championships 2012 held at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, Imphal wef 27 to 30 Nov 2012 and stood first in the overall Senior level championships shield. Overall the team struck a rich haul of medals, including 8 Gold, 5 Silver and 4 Bronze.
In the senior level Compound Round, the team won 01 Bronze Medals. In the Senior Level Indian Round, the team won 02 Gold Medals. In the Recurve Division, the team won 03 Gold Medals, 03 Silver Medals and 02 Bronze Medals. Rfn Viswajit Singh won 01 Silver Medal and 01 Gold Medal in Senior Recurve Division 90m, 50m and Elimination events. Rfn PS Sanatomba Singh won 01 Bronze Medal, 01 Silver Medal and 01 Silver Medal in the Senior Recurve Division 90m, 50m, 30m events. Rfn M Subhash Chandra won 01 Gold Medal, 01 Bronze Medal and 01 Gold Medal in the Senior Recurve Division 70m, 50m, 30m. Rfn H Brijendra Nath Singh won 02 Gold Medals in the Junior Indian Round 50m, 30m events. Rfn M Anupam Singh won 01 Bronze Medal in the Compound Round overall. Rfn P S Sanatomba Singh won Gold Medals and Rfn M Subhash Chandra won Silver Medal in individual Olympic Round of Recurve Division. Rfn H Brijendra Nath Singh won Gold Medal and Rfn Vimal Tete won Bronze Medal in individual Olympic Round of Indian Round.
The Team could perform well due to their rigorous training and coaching being carried in HQ 9 Sector Assam Rifles under aegis of HQ IGAR(S). Maj Gen UK Gurung, YSM, complimented the superb performance of the team and wished them luck for future also.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ar-senior-archers-lift-state-trophy/

Manipur lift sixth International polo trophy

Mail News Service
Imphal, Nov 29 : Manipur (India B) has won the coveted trophy of the 6th Manipur Polo International tournament. In a thrilling final played here today at the Imphal Polo ground Manipur (India B) defeated and IPA (India A) 15-5.
The IPA team started the game with a goal in the very first minute but could not match the skill of the Manipur team who with eased passed the ball into the goal. Manipur players delighted the packed stadium with amazing horsemanship and displayed their skill by scoring at will.
The semi final matches were played yesterday and in the first match Manipur defeated Thailand 9-1. In the second semi final match IPA ( India A) team defeated England 5-3.
Manipur Governor handed over the trophy to the Manipur team and declared the tournament close. A thrilling Pana Kangjei (Manipur polo style) exhibition match participated by Manipur players and four foreign teams, France, England, Germany and Thailand was also played.
The 6th Manipur Polo International 2012 was held as part of the Manipur Sangai festival 2012.
Social Welfare minister AK Mirabai, Agriculture minister Md Abdul Nasir, Parliamentary Secretary Youth Affairs and Sports M Prithiviraj also attended the function.
A souvenir of the 6th Manipur Polo International 2012 was later released by Governor Gurbachan at the event.
Six teams including England, France, Germany, Thailand, India-A (IPA) and India-B (Manipur) took part in the tournament.
Thanking the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, Manipur for organizing the tournament, Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, Chairman, Hurlingham Polo Association, England announced that the Englsih polo association would generously donate Rs 2 lakh to the Manipuri polo association.
The Polo tournament was organsied under the theme: “Manipur Gave the World, the Game of Polo: Let Us Save Manipuri Polo, the Original Polo Pony.” The international event was first held in the year 1991 at the Mapal Kangjeibung.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/manipur-lift-sixth-international-polo-trophy/

Thailand and French players during the Sixth Manipur International Polo tournament on Saturday

Sixth Manipur Polo international begins Manipur, Thailand begin campaigns with emphatic win

IMPHAL, Nov 24 MNS NNN : The 6th Manipur Polo International has kickstarted at the historic Mapal Kangjeibung (Pologround) here on Saturday. Four international teams from England, France, Germany and Thailand are participating at the tournament.
The Polo tournament is being organized by Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA) under the theme: “Manipur Gave the World, the Game of Polo: Let Us Save Manipuri Polo, the Original Polo Pony.” The international tournament is being organised as part of the ongoing Sangai Festival 2012 at Hapta Kangjeibung in Palace Compound. The international event was first held in the year 1991 at the Mapal Kangjeibung, the world’s oldest Polo ground located in the heart of Imphal.
Six teams including Indian Polo Association (IPA), also known as India-A and India-B from Manipur, apart from the four international teams are participating at the competition. In the first match played Manipur (India- B) defeated England 14 – 5 while in the second match Thailand defeated French 11-4. Tomorrow Germany will play against England and IPA ( India- A) against Thailand.
The tournament shall be conducted on league cum knock out basis
Speaking at the inaugural function of the 6-day Polo tournament, Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said Sagol Kangjei, that is Polo, is one of the cultural heritage of the people of Manipur, which has spread all over the world as a competitive sport.
He said: “In Manipur, Polo or Sagol Kangjei, has been a common man’s game during our ancient past and even during the colonial days. Today, however, the game is now becoming an urban sport.”
The Government of Manipur has allotted 30 acre of land for the integrated development of Polo in the greater Imphal area, Gaikhangam informed while adding that the (MHRPA) is also running a pony breeding farm under Government sponsorship.
“This, I am sure, will be able to supply Polo ponies at the affordable prices. I congratulate the association and its members, for all their sincere efforts for the preservation and popularization of Polo in Manipur, and for organizing the 6th Manipur Polo International,” the Deputy CM added.
He further informed that the state Government had sanctioned Rs 30 lakh for organizing this tournament.
Veterinary & Animal Husbandry minister Govindas KonthoujamGovindas Konthoujam, Minister(Vety. & AH), President of Inaugural Ceremony of the 6th Manipur Polo said
The ancient game of polo, an unique heritage of the people of Manipur, is embedded in it’s chequered history along with, the essence of the people’s historic joys and sorrows, and it’s very existence and regeneration. Polo is the product of a leisurely way of life and the absolute need of the people, to develop horsemanship for defence preparedness. Polo players of distinction received the king’s royal patronage in terms of land grants and social status.
6th Manipur Polo International 2012 is being organized for two specific reasons. Firstly to facilitate polo lovers of the world to play the game in the place of its birth There has been a tremendous response to the tournament from all over the world, and the organizers are having difficulties in accommodating all the requests for participation. Secondly, the tournament serves the objectives of saving the original polo pony.
Manipur Government has been giving an annual grant of Rupees seven lakh for maintenance of the Pony Breeding Farm run by the Association. From this year onwards the annual grant will be increased to Rupees ten lakh. The SBI, Canara Bank, ONGC also donated Rs 10 lakhs each to the organizers
Hurlingam Polo Association, England, Chairman Nicholas also spoke at the opening ceremony of the Polo tournament. He said, “Manipur is the maker of Polo.”
“I had been dreaming about visiting Manipur, the origin of Polo, for a long time but today my dream has come true.” He said Manipur is considered to be the Mecca of polo players.
He said the decision to organize this tournament was taken in Kolkata in December last year after he and a group of representatives from MHRPA met and discussed about it. Nicholas has made a lot of contributions in organizing the international event.
Lok Sabha MPs, Dr T Meinya (Inner) and Thangso Baite (Outer), and Hurlingam Polo Association, England Chairman, Colquhoun- Denvers also took part at the function.

French Polo team arrives

MNS: A seven member French polo arrived here today. They were received by members of Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association at the Tulihal airport. They will take part in the sixth Manipur Polo International 2012 to be held from Nov 24 to 29. Those who arrived today were Allemand Danial Roger (captain), Christian Daudre ( One handicap), Paul Benatter ( 2 handicap), Sebastien Decommer (1 handicap), Sebastian Motte, Mrs Loreal Claude Marie and Allemand Loreal.
A six member Thailand team, eight member German team and ten member British team will arrive tomorrow.
The inaugural ceremony of the sixth Manipur Polo international 2012 will be held at Mapal Kangjeibung on November 24 at one p.m.
The CM, O. Ibobi, Govindas Konthoujam, vety and AH minister,Dr. Th. Meina, MP, Thangso Baite and Nicholas Colquhoun Denvers, Chairman, Hurlingham Polo Assn, England will grace the function as chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/french-polo-team-arrives/

Manipur polo exhibit at Kentucky horse park

Mail News Service
Imphal, Nov 16 : A new exhibit that chronicles the contributions of the people and ponies of Manipur has been unveiled at Kentucky Horse Park, USA on Thursday by the International Museum of the Horse, said a statement issued by R.K Nimai, secretary to the Governor .
Governor Gurbachand Jagat, who made presented the items said, “Over the last century and a half, the sport of polo has become synonymous with British horsemanship”. He lamented, “However the story of how the British learned of the game, and of the people and ponies that first introduced it to them has remained shrouded in history.”
The exhibit features a traditional Manipuri polo saddle, braided bridle, braided leather whip, a full set of traditional polo player’s attire, two traditional polo mallets, a ball made of bamboo root, and a set of traditional equestrian darts. The items were designed and constructed by Meisnam Khelen of Imphal who was the former captain of the Manipur Polo team, the press communique stated.
Ed Armstrong, Director of Tournament at the United States’ Polo Association while referring to the exhibit and it history said, “We are very interested in the fascinating antecedents of our game and are pleased to have been a part of this new exhibit”. This exhibit offers scope for comparison of the previous used equipments and the present polo gear provided by the US Polo Association, the press note further stated.
The Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm or theme park and equine competition facility dedicated to man’s relationship with the horse. Located at Exit 120, Interstate 75, just north of Lexington, the park is an agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet.
The Manipuri pony is still used for polo in Manipur with 7 players on each side. Many villages have polo fields too. It is unfortunate that Manipur pony is now dwindling and an endangered breed with an estimated population of fewer than 500, noted the governor’s statement. The gift and the creation of the exhibit represent both the international and local efforts to protect the ponies.
The Museum Director Bill Cooke remarked that they were extremely grateful to the Governor and the people of Manipur not only for their ‘significant donation of ethnographic material related to the Manipuri pony’, but also for ‘allowing us (US Polo Association) to do our small part to raise awareness of these historically significant animals and the current threat of their extinction’. The museum also expressed gratitude to Dr RK Nimai Singh, Secretary to Governor and Commissioner of Arts & Culture, and L Somi, curator of media arts and film in New York for arranging the gifts.
The museum will remain open on every Wednesdays from March 15 to Oct 31 and every Sunday from Nov 1 to March 14.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/manipur-polo-exhibit-at-kentucky-horse-park/

Maasi Supports Forthcoming Sangai Festival 2012

MNS:- Manipur Adventure & Allied Sports Institute (MAASI) has been given recognition by the Government of Manipur as State Institute of Adventure in 1991. A long cherished dream of MAASI become reality with the setting up of a Tourist Lodge inside the MAASI Training Complex, Keirao. This will give an opportunity to MAASI to impart training in adventure and leadership in the youth of our State.
The Tourist Lodge at MAASI Complex, the said tourist lodge was constructed with funding from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India through Director Tourism, Government of Manipur, PWD with a total expenditure of Rs. 11, 71,1007-. The MAASI Tourist Lodge will provide boarding & lodging and also Adventure Equipments, Mountain Bicycle.
It has among other thing a dining hall, kitchen conference room for 300 person capacity constructed with funding Director, Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of Manipur a total expenditure of Rs. 7.00 lakhs. The MAASI Tourist Lodge & MAASI Dining Hall cum Conference Hall will support Development/Promotion of Adventure & Adventure Tourism in the state MAASI Tourist Lodge & Dining Hall cum Conference Hall only 7 Kms. from state capital on Yairipok Road.
MAASI has conducted several adventure activities in the state, national and international arena has organised adventure & adventure awareness camp, expedition, trekking, exploration river rafting, desert safari, rescue operation & study tour. The Director of Tourism, Govt. of Manipur has been giving support to the MAASI in terms of augmenting its adventure equipments. And the institute is now well prepared to support the forthcoming MANIPUR SANGAI FESTIVAL 2012 which is being organised by the Director of Tourism, Government of Manipur.
MAASI Complex can also 7 days Multi Adventure & Eco Tourism & one stall at the main venue of the Festival, Hapta Kangjeibung, Palace Compound and Function as a starting base for an interesting sight seeing tour with Andro Cultural Complex just 4 Kms. Kaina Temple, Nongmaiching Hill range of 0 Kms. for Trekking & Rock Climbing. Iril River for Rafting 1 Kms. and Village Tourism Cheru & Sandangshemba Maring 1 Kms. distance from it open 24 hrs. every day. MAASI welcomes you on the occassion on the Manipur Sangai Festival 2012 from 21st November to 30th November, 2012.
MAASI has also arranged “Adventure Awareness Camps” for 1 0 days from 1 st November to 10 November, 2012. Students & Non-Students interested to join the camp are requested to contact the office of MAASI for details or Contact No. 9862106589, Fax No. 0385-2405254, E-mail : maasi.manipur@gmail.com, website: www.maasimanipur.com.
Objectives: The objective of 10 days Adventure Awareness Camp are.
i) To create and foster amongst the youth a spirit of risk-taking cooperative team work, the capacity of ready and vital response to challenging situations and of endurance.
ii) To promote the spirit of national integration and communal harmony among the youth in particular and among the youths in general through different creative and innovative cultural activities.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/maasi-supports-forthcoming-sangai-festival-2012/

AMWJU unhappy with Mary Kom’s statement on Manipur media

Mail News Service
Imphal, Oct 21 : The AMWJU today said it is unfortunate if the statement of Mary Kom regarding Manipur media is correct. Manipur media pays lots of attention to Mary Kom and other sports persons it was stated. If one looks at the newspapers published in Manipur one will know the truth it was stated.
All news published in national and international media are filed by journalists from the state and how can she say she did not get any support it was asked. Manipur is sports power house and the matter is treated sensitively it was added .
Mary Kom got attention from national media only after she got Bronze medal in Olympic and she herself made the statement. The state media had been supporting her . The news items published in the newspaper houses of Manipur are testimonies of the support given to her.
It is unfortunate that she decided to lambasts Manipur media in another state. She could have approached All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union if she had any complain it was stated. Manipur media continues to support her and bringing in issue of tribal factor in sports is unfortunate it was stated.
Manipur media never commented on communal and Mary Kom was appealed to stop tarnishing image of Manipur media according to a statement issued by N. Jonish, Gen Secy AMWJU.

Sixth International polo tournament in November

Mail News Service
Imphal, Oct 19 : Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association is organizing the 6th Manipur Polo International 2012 at Mapal Kangjeibung during 24 and 29 November. This tournament is part of the Manipur Sangai Festival 2012. The Tournament is being organized as per calendar of the Indian Polo Association. The tournament is being sponsored by the Government of Manipur as part of the Manipur Sangai Festival 2012 and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, besides essential support from the general public, private individuals and various Central and State Government organizations.
The tournament will be conducted under Indian Polo Association Rules and mounted on Manipuri Pony. It is an open handicap tournament.
Teams from Hurlingham England, Germany, France and Thailand are participating in the tournament besides a team representing the Indian Polo Association and a team from Manipur. The foreign teams have been co-ordinated by Mr. Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, President Hurlingham Polo Association, the controlling body of International Polo, Royal Embassy of Thailand in India, Consul General of German Embassy in Calcutta. We wish to bring to your notice that Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers are coming to Imphal to witness the tournament as special invitees.
Infrastructure development at the historic Mapal Kangjeibung is in full swing having started from the last week of May. For the first time the Mapal Kangjeibung is being prepared to meet international standards. The playing arena has been completely greened with grass and finishing touches shall be given soon. The sitting galleries and pavilion are being renovated not only for the tournament but also for all occasions in the future.
The renovation is undertaken by Mapal Kangjeibung Use, Preservation and Maintenance Committee chaired by DC, Imphal West. Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association is part of the above Committee.
For successful organization of the 6th Manipur Polo International 2012, an Organizing Committee has been constituted with Dr. Ksh. Chourajit as the Chairman and Shri S. Budhachandra Singh as the Working Chairman. Col Ranjit and N. Bedajit are the Organizing Secretaries. Thirteen sub-committees are looking after the various organizational aspects of the tournaments. The players and other guests are all being accommodated at the best available Hotel(s) in Imphal.
The theme of the 6th Manipur Polo International 2012 is ‘Save the Manipuri Pony, the Original Polo Pony’ from extinction and promotion of International Tourism specially Polo Tourism in the State through polo, a game that Manipur gave to the world.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/sixth-international-polo-tournament-in-november/

Badminton tourney at Senapati

SENAPATI, Oct 19: Badminton enthusiasts will witness its local and other hill district talents clashing for a coveted title during the 10th Hill Districts Badminton Championship to be held from October 22 to 26 at Indoor Stadium Hall, Senapati district headquarters.
The five-day championship will also witness the presence of high ranking officials including the district deputy commissioner P.K Jha, Registrar of Co-operative Societies T. Pamei, Purul subdivisional officer Ronald, medical doctors, police officers, bank managers and civil organizational leaders along with young and talented local youths (boys and girls).
A tournament held yearly in all hill districts to promote the game and physical fitness among youths, it is the initiative of the Hill Districts Badminton Association, Manipur headed by T.Pamei, IAS.
Local youths and participants are on with hectic preparation and practices during the filling of this report.
According to Senapati District Badminton Association (SDBA) which is hosting the championship, the inaugural programme will be inaugurated by MLA L.Dikho who himself is a die-hard badminton player as chief guest, while Barun Mitra, IAS, Principal Secretary in charge of Finance and T.Pamei, both will grace the occasion as guests of honour.
The closing ceremony will be graced by Bijoy Koijam, president of Manipur Olympic Association and Manipur Badminton Association while both H.Deelip, IAS Director, YAS & Education, and James Thatlinga, AGM, SBI, RBO,
Imphal will grace the final ceremony as guests of honor. Special dinners have also been provided by the district elected members and officers

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/badminton-tourney-at-senapati/

Arsom Football Tournament

Mail News Service
Imphal, Oct 17: The ARSOM inter school football competition 2012 was organised from 12 Oct to 16 Oct 2012 between eight teams for Assam Rifles Schools of Maram, Jwalamukhi, Mantripukhri, Pallel, Kakching, Thoubal, Somsai and Keithelmanbi. Football competition concluded on 16 Oct 12 at Assam Rifles Junior High School (ARJHS), Pallel Garrison of HQ 26 Sector under HQ IGAR(S). Brig Upendra Dwivedi, Commander HQ 26 Sector Assam Rifles graced the occasion. The final match was played between School from Maram and Mantripukhri. School from Maram won the final match. The football match was followed by many cultural programs by the school children of Pallel. On the occasion, Inter School ARSOM Football Championship Trophy, Medals, Lapel pins, certificates, Individual prizes were distributed.
Brigadier Upendra Dwivedi, Commander 26 Sector appreciated the enthusiasm of the team players and spectators which made this event a mega success. He emphasized the role of sports in building unity amongst school children and instilling nationalism among citizens of the country. He stated that parents and teachers should also encourage children to take up various sports for all round development of the students. The five-day football extravaganza included a visit to Tengnoupal, movie screening, musical evening and cultural events. On-the-spot football quiz was also organised during the tournament and prizes were distributed to the winners. Maj Gen U K Gurung, YSM,IGAR(S) conveyed his appreciation to all the participating teams and gave out his visionary plan to organise volleyball championship and Poem writing competition in coming months.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/arsom-football-tournament/

Arsom Inter School Football Competition 2012-13

MNS:- Inter School Football Competition 2012 for Assam Rifles Schools of Manipur (ARSOM) is being organised at Assam Rifles Junior High School, Pallel Garrison of HQ 26 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR(South ) from 12 to 16 Oct 12. The tournament was inaugurated by Brig Upendra Dwivedi, Commander Headquarter 26 Sector Assam Rifles on 12 Oct 12. The aim of this tournament is to nurture football talent among the students of Assam Rifles Schools. Speaking on the occasion, Commander 26 Sector Assam Rifles highlighted the importance of sports in school’s curriculum and football being a popular event in Manipur is a noble initiative. All Assam Rifles schools in the recent times have been upgraded and multi-dimensional activities are being organised for the overall development of children under the able guidance of ARSOM (Assam Rifles Schools of Manipur) and Sports Competitions are a way towards overall personality development.
A total of eight teams from Maram, JPS Jwalamukhi, Mantripukhri, Pallel, Kakching, Thoubal, Somsai and Keithelmanbi are participating in the event. The tournament is for students from class 5th to 10th standard with teams divided into two pools and matches being played on league cum knockout based on FIFA rules. During the five days football extravaganza, visit to Tengnoupal, movie screening, cultural evening with Jazz band performance and on the spot quiz competition also included.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/arsom-inter-school-football-competition-2012-13/

Zeliangrong’s Marathon Peace and Discovery Expedition

Imphal, Oct 12 NNN: The expedition team of the Zeliangrong Citizens Forum (ZCF) has reached Loktak Project of Manipur late last night after having had toured Nagaland. In a marathon peace and discovery expedition, the Zeliangrong Citizens Forum (ZCF) organised the Zeliangrong ancestral land expedition-2012, under the theme “Homecoming to Makuilongdi”, launched earlier on October 6 last at Peren, Nagaland and covering all the state of Nagaland on October 10 last — flagged off by All Zeliangrong Students Union (AZSU) former president C.R Zeliang with 30 other prominent member team who also visited Poilwa-Rani Gaidinliu fort, New Poilwa, Benreu,Jalukie. The cultural and peace building tour reached Imphal on October 10 last, halting at Loktak Project Thengjang village and viewed the legendary “Maipui Kaitao” (Widow Peak/Lukharabi Yumpham), visiting Zeliangrong village Henglep, Chiurachandpur district, it said. The team consisting elites, researchers, and student leaders left Manipur for Binakandi in Assam where Haipou Jadonang Malangmei and Rani Gaidinliu on their trip to cave Duilunlong in Cachar valley, Assam, the second Godhead of Zeliangrong’s seven gods, Lord Khanglinlung bestowed wisdom at the site both to Jadonang and Rani Gaidinliu to found “HERAKA”, reformed traditional religion. The expedition team carrying peace, goodwill and cultural renaissance plan to cover Longmai (Noney), Longba (Nungba), Puilon (Kambiron), the then native villaghe birthplace of Rani Gaidinliu, Sangrung (Khongshang), Tamenglomg,Tamei, ZC (Yangkhullen) and finally Makui Longdi). Lastly, ZCF would erect monolith “Ngaiba Tusom” at Makuilongdi, ancestral homeland of Zeliangrong on October 22 next.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/zeliangrongs-marathon-peace-and-discovery-expedition/

Complete sports infrastructure at Shillong by April 2013 : Maken

SHILLONG, Oct 10 NNN: Union Minister of State independent charge of Youth Affairs and Sports Ajay Maken Wednesday set a March – April 2013 as the “deadline” for the concerned implementing agency of Sports to complete the much-awaited Special Games Area Centre (SGAC) at the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Shillong to cater not only to Meghalaya but neighboring states in the North East.
The SGAC, which is will be the second “high altitude centre” in the country, was sanctioned way back in 2002.
However there has been an over delay in completing the project which has been a concerned for the government.
Maken, on his two-day visit which is for the second time to the region, conducted an inspection of the construction site. He said, “We have missed the deadline set earlier which the project was targeted to be completed in September – October last year.”
However, expressing satisfaction there is tremendous progress of the work in the last one year, the Union Minister said, “I have directed the officials that the ‘deadline’ should not be extended and that the project should be completed within March-April next year.”
He added, “I have asked them that I should be able to inaugurate the project on my next visit to the state.”
The Sports Centre equipped with the best facilities and infrastructures is expected to promote, develop sports activities and provide a proper platform for talented youths of the Meghalaya and even neighboring states in region.
Mentionably, the total project cost was estimated at Rs 43 crores out of which Rs 29 crores has already been released by the government of India.
Stating that there is no paucity of funds, the Union Minister said, “I have asked the concerned authority to submit the proposal on the required funds for the government to make the sanction.”
Maken further asserted, “The Sports centre in NEHU would be the ‘Game Changer’ in the region,” adding “This will not only benefit the youths from the state but will also cater to need of the neighboring states in the North East.”“We are aiming at producing young talented youths from the NE who will represent the country by 2020,” he opined and hoped that the centre will be utilized to the optimum.
The Minister was accompanied by the State Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Sports and Youth Affairs Bindo M Lanong besides officials from the Sports Authority of India (SAI).
Stating that there is a need to set up a Sports Science Centre in the region, Maken said, “I have suggested that the region should have a ‘sports science centre’ and whatever the amount required, we are ready to sanction.”
According to the Union Minister, every modern sports centre requires sports science centre as the sports culture has been so scientific.
“If you want to do well in different level of competition, you need a sports science centre which will be well equipped with best coaches to train young talented youths of the region,” he said while speaking to reporters.
It is also learnt that there are altogether 90 SAI centres in the country.

Mary Kom boxing academy will be one of the best in the world : Maken

IMPHAL, Oct 8 NNN: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Ajay Maken today arrived in Imphal on a one day visit to the state. The Union minister was accosted a warm welcome by officials of the state Sports Authority of India (SAI) including players at Imphal Tulihal Airport.
Maken, who arrived here by an Indigo flight at 1:30 pm, is leading a delegation which includes Gopal Krishna, Director General, SAI, Amiyachandra, his Private Secretary and Onkarkedia, Joint Secretary of Union Ministry of YAS.
The delegation first visited the Chief Minister’s Secretariat where they were received by Chief Minister O Ibobi.
Maken is visiting the state in connection with the 2020 Olympic Games to discuss ways to produce the highest number of Manipuri Olympians to bring back home more medals.
Attending at an interaction programme held at Manipur Olympic Association (MOA) Meeting Hall, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, Maken said he came here to discuss with the state sports officials to discuss ways on producing more number of Manipuri Olympians for the 2020 Olympics.
He announced that the proposed boxing academy to be run by London Olympic Games bronze medalist MC Mary Kom will be made a world class standard academy.
At the meeting, Bijoy Koijam, president, MOA, Dilip, Director, Manipur YAS, national awardees in the field of sports and other officials of different sports organizations of Manipur took part.
Maken will leave Imphal for New Delhi tomorrow.