DIMAPUR, JUN 18 (NPN): Marking a significant milestone in sports infrastructure development, the newly constructed basketball court at Forest Colony in Kohima was formally inaugurated by Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S. Keoshu Yimchunger, on June 17 amid enthusiastic community participation and support.
The inauguration plaque was unveiled following a prayer led by Pastor of All People’s Church, P.R. Hill Hormila Zenei-O. The programme was chaired by Women Coordinator of the Forest Colony Youth Organization (FCYO), Rükuno Neinu, while Chairperson of the Forest Colony Mothers’ Welfare and Prayer Fellowship, Martha Ovung, invoked God’s blessings to commence the event.
Addressing the gathering as the special guest, S. Keoshu Yimchunger reflected on the deep-rooted sporting traditions of the Naga people and noted that the spirit of sports had gradually diminished over time.
He said the construction of the court under the guidance of the local MLA was a timely reminder to revive that spirit. Encouraging young people to take advantage of the facility, he urged them to pursue sports not only as a recreational activity but also as a potential professional career.
Forest Colony Council Chairman Peter K. Rengma in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhütso for his contribution towards the construction of the court. He also encouraged residents to continue supporting the initiatives undertaken by the colony council and youth organization.
Providing a brief history of the project, former FCYO president Thipuzo Azo Kezo highlighted that the facility, dubbed the “Iconic Project,” was built according to international standards and measurements, making it the first basketball court of its kind in Nagaland.
The gathering was entertained with a musical performance by Keneipfenuo Sanchu before dignitaries addressed the congregation.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Department of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, and advisor to the Forest Colony Council and FCYO, Supongnukshi Ao, IFS urged the community to preserve the sanctity of the court and make full use of the open space as a healthy alternative to excessive screen time.
MLA for 9 Kohima Town, Dr. Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhütso, expressed hope that the court would serve as a symbol of unity and community spirit. He also suggested introducing a nominal user fee to support the maintenance and upkeep of the facility.
The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by FCYO president Enok Awomi. He acknowledged the presence of representatives from colony councils under Ward-17, including Agri, Electrical and Forest (AEF), the Council of Mewibogei, Old Minister’s Hill, as well as students and teachers from Government High School, Forest Colony.
Awomi also credited the project’s realization to the visionary initiative of former MLA Dr. Neikiesalie Kire and the unwavering support of Supongnukshi Ao and former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dharmendra Prakash, IFS (Retd.), who helped lay its foundation.
The occasion concluded with an exhibition basketball match between local teams Team Bandits and AEF Colony Youths, with Team Bandits securing a convincing victory.
Dedicating the facility to the present and future generations, the Forest Colony Youth Organization expressed optimism that the new basketball court would evolve into a vibrant hub for sports activities while fostering greater sportsmanship, unity and community engagement.
