BISHNUPUR, January 4: Noting that a person is worthless if he does not acquire discipline and spirit for success in life whether he belongs to a rich family, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam asserted that sports is a source from where a person can learn discipline and hard work.
The Dy CM was addressing a reception function for martial arts athletes and officials, organized jointly by North East Students’ Olympic Association and Martial Arts Authority of Manipur at Kodompokpi Mayai Leikai, Mekola in Imphal West today.
Speaking as chief guest, Gaikhangam who also holds the Home portfolio maintained that every Manipuri should feel proud of the undeniable fact that the State has produced uncountable world class sports players who have brought laurel to the State.
He said that the proposed setting up of Sports University in the State is due to the emergence of world class players, encouragement of players from every section, incentive and cash awards and suitable job being provided by the government to them.
He appealed to the people to extend full support to the proposed Sports University.
There was a time when people from outside used to mock at Manipur but now the State have become the power house of sports which is commendable, Gaikhangam acknowledged. Stating that no one can stop the rapid growth of the State, he mentioned that now the State has garnered respect and recognition from mainland India.
MLA of Naoriya Pakhanglakpa constituency RK Anand who was present at the occasion said that formation of sport clubs in localities has helped in producing world class players in different disciplines.
He further said that the government has been encouraging sports players by giving incentive awards.
The MLA underlined the need for assisting players in taking part in competition outside the State.
However, a Cabinet decision is required to do the needful, he said.
He added that spirit of sports of the country seems to lack behind without players from the State.
During the function, Bishnupur correspondent of Imphal Free Press, Dr H Romen Singh was honoured with the title ‘Best Journalist’ for extensive coverage of World Martial Games.
The appreciation certificate from the side of Martial Arts Authority India was presented to the journalist by Dy CM Gaikhangam.
Officials and players who won gold medals in the 2nd Students Olympic Games 2015 held in Puducherry in July, 2015; 15th National Wushu Kung-Fu Championship held in Madhya Pradesh in August and 2nd World Martial Arts Games 2015 held at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, Mumbai in November were also honoured by presenting simple gifts.
Today’s reception function was also attended by Deputy Speaker Preshow Shimray as president; Minister of Commerce & Industries and Vety & Animal Husbandry Govindas Konthoujam; ex-MP Angou and Parliamentary Secretary Meghachandra as guests of honour.