DIMAPUR, JUL 24 (NPN): A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for shifting the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Training Centre to the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex (MDSC), Dimapur, was signed at the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex, Kohima, on Friday.
Addressing the programme, chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio described the signing of the MoU as the beginning of a new chapter in Nagaland’s sporting journey.
He said the relocation of the SAI Training Centre to MDSC marked a significant milestone achieved through years of sustained efforts to strengthen the state’s sports ecosystem and create greater opportunities for youth. Rio said the operationalisation of the new training centre would enable athletes to benefit from quality coaching, modern residential facilities and scientific support systems, thereby strengthening sports development in Nagaland and the wider North East region.
He also expressed satisfaction over other ongoing SAI infrastructure projects at MDSC, saying they would enhance the training ecosystem and support high-performance sports.
Highlighting the government’s continued investment in sports, Rio said the state was focusing on modern infrastructure, sports science, grassroots competitions, athlete welfare and capacity building. He recalled the inauguration of 16 new sports infrastructure projects earlier this month, with more in the pipeline.
Speaking on behalf of SAI, deputy director general Majushree Dayanand termed the occasion a landmark in the partnership between the Government of Nagaland and SAI. She appreciated the state government for providing a new venue for the training centre and facilitating the establishment of a Centre of Excellence. Stressing that Nagaland possesses immense sporting talent, she urged the community to view sports as a viable career option for youth.
Earlier, advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, said the partnership reflected the government’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and strengthening the state’s sports culture.
Also speaking, Athletics Federation of India (AFI) vice president and Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) secretary general Abu Metha credited Dr. Rio for his vision and sustained efforts to promote sports in the state. He said sports have the power to unite the nation and appealed to SAI to introduce customised sports programmes suited to the unique needs of the North East to strengthen grassroots sports development in the region.
In a post on X, Metha said the project will include upgraded sports infrastructure, a modern Sports Science Centre, residential facilities for male and female athletes, completion of existing infrastructure, and world-class high-performance training in disciplines such as Football, Boxing, Athletics, Sepak Takraw and more.
