Kohima: The Nagaland government and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the relocation of the SAI Training Centre to the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex (MDSC) in Dimapur.
The MoU was signed during a programme held at the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex in Kohima.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio described the agreement as the beginning of a new chapter in Nagaland’s sporting journey, saying the relocation marks a significant milestone achieved through years of efforts to strengthen the state’s sports ecosystem and create greater opportunities for young athletes.
He said the operationalisation of the new training centre would provide athletes with access to quality coaching, modern residential facilities and scientific support systems, benefiting sports development in Nagaland and the wider Northeast region.
Rio also expressed satisfaction over the ongoing SAI infrastructure projects at the MDSC, saying they would further enhance the state’s high-performance sports ecosystem. He added that the government continues to invest in sports infrastructure, sports science, grassroots competitions, athlete welfare and capacity building, recalling the recent inauguration of 16 sports infrastructure projects, with several more in the pipeline.
Sports Authority of India Deputy Director General Majushree Dayanand termed the signing of the MoU a landmark in the partnership between SAI and the Nagaland government. She thanked the state for providing a new venue for the training centre and facilitating the establishment of a Centre of Excellence.
Stressing the importance of nurturing local talent, Dayanand said Nagaland has immense sporting potential that requires sustained support, motivation and encouragement. She also urged the community to view sports as a viable career option for young people, noting that sports contribute to building responsible and productive citizens.
Earlier, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S. Keoshu Yimkhiung said the partnership reflects the government’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and promoting a strong sporting culture in the state. He said the relocation would offer athletes improved opportunities to train and compete at higher levels.
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Athletics Federation of India Vice President and Nagaland Olympic Association Secretary General Abu Metha credited Chief Minister Rio for his vision and sustained efforts in promoting sports despite various challenges.
Metha said sports have the power to unite the country and integrate young people into the national mainstream. He also urged the Sports Authority of India to introduce customised sports programmes suited to the unique needs of the Northeast to strengthen grassroots sports development in the region.
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