Aizawl: India marked its annual National Sports Day to honor the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players in history. The day, celebrated nationwide on Dhyan Chand’s birth anniversary, is dedicated to promoting sportsmanship and recognising the role of sports in national integration.
In Mizoram, the occasion was observed with grand celebrations organized by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) State Training Centre at Mission Vengthlang, extending across various districts throughout the year. This year, the theme adopted for National Sports Day was “Sport to Promote Peaceful and Inclusive Societies.”
During the main event, T. Lalhlimpuia, MLA, emphasised the importance of sports in building character, discipline, and cultural understanding. He highlighted how sports foster mutual respect and camaraderie, contributing to the social fabric of the community. Lalhlimpuia also called upon youth and citizens to engage actively in sports to nurture qualities like teamwork and perseverance.
The event was inaugurated by H. Lalhmingthanga, Director of Sports & Youth Services, who spoke about the need to encourage sports participation at all levels. K. Lalrinzuali, Secretary of Sports & Youth Services, and Lianminthang, Regional Director of SAI, were also present and led a collective pledge-taking ceremony, encouraging athletes and supporters to uphold the values of sportsmanship and discipline.
Various sports competitions were organized including Futsal (Men), Volleyball (Women), Arpa Insual (Men), Inkawibah (Women), Hockey, and Dart Throw. Participants were divided into groups named after prominent athletes such as Jeremy Lalrinnunga (Blue Group), Lallianzuala Chhangte (White Group), Lalrina Renthlei (Black Group), and Lalremsiami (Red Group).
Athletes and officials from multiple departments including the Secretariat, Directorate, MSSC, KISCE, NCC, NSS, and SAI took part enthusiastically, making the celebrations a vibrant and inclusive affair.
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