A programme marking the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the shifting of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Training Centre to the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex (MDSC), Dimapur, was held at the Chief Minister's Residential Complex, Kohima on 24th July, 2026.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio described the signing of the MoU as the beginning of a new chapter in Nagaland's sporting journey. He said the relocation of the SAI Training Centre to the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex, Dimapur, marks a significant milestone achieved through years of sustained commitment to strengthening the state's sports ecosystem and creating greater opportunities for its youth.
The Chief Minister said that the operationalization of the new training centre would enable athletes to benefit from quality coaching, modern residential facilities and scientific support systems, thereby strengthening sports development in Nagaland and the wider North East region.
Expressing satisfaction over other ongoing SAI infrastructure projects at the MDSC, Dimapur, Rio said these initiatives would significantly enhance the training ecosystem and further strengthen the development of high-performance sports in the state.
Highlighting the government's continued investment in sports, he said the state recognises the immense sporting potential of its youth and has been focusing on developing modern infrastructure, sports science, grassroots competitions, athlete welfare and capacity building. He also recalled the inauguration of 16 new sports infrastructure projects earlier this month, with several more projects in the pipeline.
Speaking on behalf of the SAI, Deputy Director General Majushree Dayanand termed the occasion a landmark in the partnership between the Government of Nagaland and SAI. She appreciated the state government for providing a new venue for the training centre and for facilitating the creation of a Centre of Excellence. Quoting, "To go far, we need to start near," Dayanand stressed that Nagaland possesses immense sporting talent that requires proper nurturing, motivation and encouragement. She urged the local community to view sports as a viable career option for young people, adding that sports play a vital role in shaping responsible and productive citizens.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung said the partnership reflects the government's commitment to nurturing sporting talent and building a strong sports culture in the state. He said the relocation of the training centre would provide athletes with improved opportunities to train and compete at the highest level.
Also speaking at the programme, Abu Metha, Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and Secretary General of the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA), credited Chief Minister Dr. Rio for his vision and sustained efforts to promote sports in the state despite numerous challenges.
Metha said sports have the power to unite the nation and bring young people into the national mainstream, making it an effective platform for fostering national integration. He also appealed to the Sports Authority of India to consider customised sports programmes tailored to the unique needs of the North East in order to strengthen grassroots sports development in the region.
(Ikedalule, APRO)
