KOHIMA, SEP 11 (NPN): The 6th edition of the Inter-Departmental Badminton Tournament, organised by the Inter Department Badminton Club (IDBC), Kohima, commenced on Friday with OSD, Youth Resources & Sports and international footballer Roko Angami as the special guest.
Angami congratulated the organisers for bringing together officers and employees from various government departments through sports. He said the tournament would foster friendship, mutual respect, and better coordination among employees, extending beyond the playing arena to create a harmonious working environment.
He emphasised that sports serve as a universal language transcending boundaries and differences, promoting unity and mutual understanding. According to him, the inter-departmental tournament offers employees a chance to step away from routine duties, interact, strengthen relationships and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Highlighting badminton’s qualities, Angami noted that discipline, fitness, concentration, quick decision-making and determination are essential both in sports and professional life. He described the tournament as more than a competition, calling it a platform for unity, fellowship and healthy competition.
Angami shared his football journey, saying the sport gave him identity, purpose and opportunities to travel widely. Though football remains his primary discipline, he has recently taken up badminton recreationally, stressing that sports have no age limit.
As Director Sports of the Super Masters Games & Sports Federation India, he highlighted the Masters Games as a platform for athletes beyond their professional years. He explained that competitions are held across age categories from 40s to 100s, focusing on fitness, friendship and enjoyment rather than medals.
He recalled that five Naga footballers represented India at the World Masters Games 2025 in Chinese Taipei and expressed hope for greater Naga participation in the 2027 World Masters Games in Japan. He also announced that the Indian Sub-continent Masters Games 2027 will be held in Jammu and Kashmir in March next year.
Angami stressed that sports are one of the most valuable investments individuals can make, contributing to physical and mental health. He said the saying “health is wealth” only holds true when put into practice.
He praised the Nagaland government under chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for promoting sports, citing the development of over 30 futsal grounds, several artificial turf grounds and more than 32 multipurpose halls across the state, many equipped for badminton and table tennis.
He highlighted the CM’s Initiative for Advancement of Sportspersons, which supports promising athletes with coaching, studies and equipment. Badminton, he noted, is among the five priority sports under this initiative.
Angami concluded by urging participants to approach the tournament with courage, enjoyment, and healthy competition, saying the experience would enrich their life journey.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Temsu Longkumer; invocation was pronounced by pastor, KBAM, Dr. S. N. Among Jamir; welcome address was delivered by president IDBC, Er. Sabou Yashü.
EAC Seyiekhrietuo Solo, spoke on behalf of the district administration, a collaboration partner; a special number was presented by Elike Shohe; the oath for players was administered by chief umpire Toshi Lemtur; vote of thanks was proposed by M. Rhovisie Nyuwi.
The tournament is supported by Special Officer to the Chief Minister Neibalie Rio, State Bank of India (SBI), Toyota and Urban Bay Sports, Kohima. The event will culminate on Saturday
