Nagaland Unveils Major Initiatives To Boost Local Sports Talent

KOHIMA: In a significant move to foster local talent and improve the sporting environment in Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced three key initiatives during the closing ceremony of the inaugural Nagaland Super League (NSL) at Chumoukedima Football Stadium on Tuesday.

The plans include the establishment of the Nagaland Football Academy, the launch of the Chief Minister's Sports Scholarships, and the launch of the Nagaland International Gold Cup. The football academy is aimed at setting up a state-sponsored professional training centre in collaboration with a world-renowned international institution, with the objectives of grooming young talents and enhancing the sporting scenario of the area.

The Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarships will provide funding for promising young athletes to join top football academies, in partnership with the Nagaland Olympic Association and national sports federations. "Talented individuals identified by experts will be sent to high-performance academies to compete at elite levels," Rio stated.

Also, the Nagaland International Gold Cup will have a combination of four national, local, and international teams meant to prepare local clubs for the I-League. The competition will provide players with exposure as well as Rs. 2 crore per annum to teams that qualify for the National I-League.

CM Rio stressed the need for investment by both public and private sectors in grassroots development and infrastructure to make Nagaland a major force in Indian football. Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton reaffirmed the government's resolve to encourage sports in all disciplines, offering opportunities for young talents to grow.

Also Read: Guwahati Police Intercepts Three Bikes For Using Modified Silencers At Narengi

Also Watch: