DIMAPUR, JUNE 18 (NPN): Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on June 18, chaired a review meeting of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) at the Naga Bhavan Conference Hall, Lok Bhavan, to assess the department’s ongoing programmes, achievements and future plans aimed at promoting youth empowerment and sports development in the state.
According to DIPR, during the meeting, the department presented a comprehensive overview of its mandate, key accomplishments, infrastructure projects, challenges and strategic initiatives. Officials highlighted efforts to foster leadership, skill development, cultural engagement, volunteerism and grassroots sports, while also nurturing talented athletes for participation at state, national and international levels.
The Governor reviewed major sporting and youth-oriented programmes conducted during 2025–26, including the Nagaland’s Next Top Player initiative, State-Level Pre-Subroto Tournament, National Sports Day celebrations, youth festivals, youth exchange programmes, adventure activities, women’s futsal initiatives, grassroots football development projects and the hosting of regional and national sporting events in Nagaland.
The department also informed the Governor about the achievements of Nagaland athletes in disciplines such as taekwondo, sepak takraw, archery, boxing and pencak silat, where sportspersons secured medals and recognition at national and international competitions.
On sports infrastructure development, officials briefed the Governor on completed and ongoing projects under various schemes, including Khelo India, Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), PM-DevINE, NESIDS-OTRI, State Plan and Innovation Schemes. Several multipurpose indoor halls, futsal grounds, sports facilities and cultural infrastructure projects have been completed across the state, while major initiatives such as the Kohima Multi-Disciplinary Sports Centre are currently under construction.
The Governor also reviewed the activities of allied wings functioning under the department, including the National Service Scheme (NSS), Bharat Scouts and Guides (BS&G), National Cadet Corps (NCC), Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) and the Engineering Wing, which collectively contribute to youth development, community engagement, leadership building and infrastructure creation.
Officials highlighted key challenges facing the sector, including the need for enhanced budgetary support for grassroots and gender-responsive sports programmes, improved sporting opportunities for persons with disabilities and greater employment avenues for sportspersons. The department further outlined its future plans, including the proposed Chief Minister’s Sports Initiative, aimed at providing scholarships, advanced coaching and exposure opportunities for talented athletes, alongside the expansion of grassroots football programmes throughout the state. Appreciating the department’s efforts, Governor Yadav emphasized the importance of creating greater opportunities for young people to develop their talents, leadership qualities and sporting potential. He encouraged officials to strengthen grassroots initiatives and ensure that youth and sports programmes benefit all sections of society across Nagaland.
Senior officers of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports attended the meeting and presented detailed reports on the various programmes and projects currently being implemented.
