PM Modi virtually inaugurates Indoor Cricket Academy at Sovima

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday virtually inaugurated the Indoor Cricket Academy at Sovima, marking a significant boost to cricket infrastructure in the state.
The inauguration was conducted virtually from Paljor Stadium, where the Prime Minister was addressing the 50th Statehood celebrations of Sikkim.
Alongside Nagaland, similar academies in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram were also inaugurated virtually, while Sikkim’s facility was inaugurated on-site.
The Indoor Cricket Academy, inside the Nagaland Cricket Stadium complex, has been funded entirely by Board of Control for Cricket in India at a cost of Rs. 19.85 crore. Construction commenced in August 2023 and was completed in September 2025.
Following the virtual inauguration, a dedicatory prayer for the academy was offered by pastor, CRC Sovima, Rev. Zhau Sanchu.
Meanwhile, addressing media after the inaugural ceremony, Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) honorary secretary Hyunilo Anilo Khing described the facility as a “dream project” for the region, particularly given the challenges posed by prolonged monsoon seasons.
“For a game like cricket, rainfall often disrupts play. This indoor facility will ensure that training can continue year-round, regardless of weather conditions” he said, adding that the academy would significantly enhance player development and skill-building among both boys and girls.
He further expressed gratitude to BCCI leadership, particularly Jay Shah, for supporting the initiative, stating that the project reflects a strong commitment to promoting cricket in the Northeast.
He informed that the academy is equipped with four indoor practice pitches, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, separate locker rooms for men and women, a cafeteria and a half Olympic-size swimming pool.
Khing noted that the proposal for the academy was initially put forward by chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio during his tenure as president of the Nagaland Cricket Association, while adding that the construction was carried out by Nipani Infratech, with Grant Thornton serving as the project management consultant.
He later expressed hope that BCCI would continue to support infrastructure expansion in the state. “This is just the beginning. We look forward to more such initiatives that will benefit the youth and promote the game across Nagaland” he added.