NewKerala.com

AFI's Historic AGM in Kohima Aims to Boost Northeast Sports Development

The Athletics Federation of India began its two-day Annual General Meeting in Kohima, marking the first time a national sports federation has held its AGM in Nagaland. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio welcomed the event, highlighting its role in national integration while acknowledging the state's challenges with sports infrastructure and coaching. AFI officials, including Lalit Kumar Bhanot, pledged support for developing athletics in the region through technical aid and grassroots programs. The meeting aims to yield decisions that shape Indian sports and inspire athletes in the Northeast.

Key Points: Athletics Federation of India Holds Historic AGM in Nagaland

  • First national sports federation AGM in Nagaland
  • Focus on Northeast sports infrastructure
  • Push for grassroots athletic development
  • Corporate CSR sought for facilities
2 min read

Athletics Federation of India kicks off two-day AGM in Kohima

Nagaland hosts AFI's AGM for the first time, focusing on infrastructure, talent development, and national integration in sports.

"It promotes national integration and inclusiveness. - Neiphiu Rio"

Kohima, April 14

The two-day Annual General Meeting of the Athletics Federation of India began in Nagaland's Kohima on Tuesday at Hotel Vivor, marking a historic first as no national sports federation had previously held its AGM in the state.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who is also the President of the Nagaland Olympic Association, warmly welcomed delegates from across the country, calling it a privilege for Nagaland to host such a significant national-level event.

He expressed gratitude to the President of the South Asian Athletics Federation, Lalit Kumar Bhanot, for his vision and initiative in bringing the meeting to the Northeast, noting that it promotes national integration and inclusiveness. Alongside Bhanot, AFI President, Bahadur Singh Sagoo and World Athletics Vice President, Adille Sumariwala, were also present.

Rio highlighted Nagaland's gradual progress in sports since its affiliation with the Indian Olympic Association, while acknowledging persistent challenges such as limited infrastructure and lack of facilities under the Sports Authority of India (SAI). He emphasised the need for investment, coaching, and exposure for the region's talented youth.

He also expressed hope that support from federations and corporate CSR initiatives would help improve sports infrastructure, including stadium development and training facilities. Concluding, Rio stated that the AGM would not only be historic but also yield meaningful decisions that will positively shape the future of sports in India, while inspiring athletes and stakeholders in the Northeast.

While addressing the meeting, Bhanot expressed gratitude to the Government of Nagaland for hosting the AGM and praised Abu Mehta for his exceptional organisational efforts, noting that he has set a new benchmark for such meetings.

He reaffirmed full support from the Athletics Federation of India in developing athletics in Nagaland, including technical assistance and grassroots programs. Highlighting India's extensive athletics network, he mentioned initiatives like the National Inter-District Athletics Meet covering over 650 districts, along with more than 40 competitions nationwide, including in the Northeast, to improve accessibility.

Bhanot encouraged the establishment of academies in Nagaland, expressing confidence that the state has strong potential to produce talented athletes, especially in middle and long-distance running and race walking.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally, some focus on the Northeast! Our athletes from states like Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram have brought us so many medals in boxing and football. With proper coaching and facilities, they can dominate athletics too. Jai Hind!
R
Rohit P
Good move, but let's see if words translate to action. We hear about "grassroots programs" and "technical assistance" often. Need a clear, time-bound plan for stadiums and academies in Nagaland. The potential is huge, especially in long-distance running.
M
Michael C
Interesting read. As an athletics fan, developing talent from all regions is key for India to compete globally. The terrain in Nagaland could be perfect for producing world-class endurance athletes. Hope they get the support they need.
N
Neha E
Proud moment for Nagaland! 🎉 It's high time national federations looked beyond the usual metros. The Chief Minister is right about needing corporate CSR support. Maybe some big companies can adopt districts for sports development.
K
Karthik V
A respectful criticism: While hosting the meeting there is symbolic, the real test is follow-through. The SAI infrastructure gap is a pan-India problem, but it's acute in the Northeast. Hope this AGM results in a special package or policy for the region.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50