Advisor to Chief Minister, Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland, and Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), Abu Metha held a meeting with the Chairman of the Planning Committee of AFI, Dr. Lalit K. Bhanod in New Delhi on 21st July 2023.
During the meeting, Metha conveyed his congratulations to Dr. Bhanod and the AFI for the remarkable performance of the Indian Athletics Team at the recent Asian Athletics Championships in Thailand, where India secured a record-breaking 27 medals. The AFI was also honored with the Best Performing Federation at the Asian Athletics Association Awards Ceremony.
Joining Metha in the meeting was former champion long jumper, Anju Bobby George, who is also the Vice President of AFI, and Chief National Coach, Radhakrishnan.
The discussion centered around various roadmaps to promote athletics and track and field in the northeastern region, particularly in Nagaland. Plans were discussed to introduce a top-level education program for coaches and technical officials under the auspices of the AFI, to be held in Nagaland for the benefit of the region. Additionally, a special coaching camp for talented athletes, guided by national and international coaches, is also in the pipeline.
It was noted that Nagaland previously hosted a capacity-building workshop for technical officials from the northeastern states in Kohima. Officials who completed the AFI certification course during this training have been given opportunities to officiate at various national-level competitions, including the National Games and the Khelo India Games. Nagaland had also successfully hosted the South Asian Cross Country Championships under the guidance of AFI.
Nagaland Athletics, in collaboration with the AFI, is actively working on a roadmap to promote and develop young athletes in the field of athletics and track and field, to nurture them to become future champions.
Metha expressed appreciation to the AFI, led by President Adille Sumariwala and Planning Chairman Dr. Bhanod, for their constant support, guidance, and a special focus on the northeastern region.
(DIPR)
