On November 26, 2024, the 69th National School Games officially opened in Itanagar. The ceremony took place at the Khelo India indoor stadium and was led by Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General K.T. Parnaik (Retd.).
A Raj Bhavan official informed the press that 1,291 young athletes—843 girls—were competing from 26 states, six Union Territories, and eight central organisations in two sports: Taekwondo and Weightlifting. In total, 890 participants took part in Taekwondo and 401 in Weightlifting, all overseen by 140 technical officials. Around 200 parents also gathered to cheer on the athletes.
During his opening address, Governor Parnaik described the games as a celebration of youth, talent, and the spirit that will shape India’s future. He reminded the competitors that the event is about learning, forming bonds, and growing together. He urged the athletes to tackle every challenge, play with passion, respect their rivals, and uphold true sportsmanship throughout the competition. The former general expressed pride in witnessing their talent, determination, and camaraderie and hoped the games would foster a pool of strong young athletes who could represent India in Taekwondo and Weightlifting on the world stage.
The governor called for a scientific approach to nurturing talent, emphasising the importance of sports medicine to match students’ natural abilities with the right sport. He urged schools and sports departments nationwide to invest in proper playgrounds, skilled coaches, and adequate infrastructure so every child feels encouraged to participate, grow, and discover their potential.
He also expressed pride in Arunachal Pradesh’s achievement, noting that the state—despite being one of India’s youngest and a new member of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI)—has successfully hosted this prestigious event. With boxing already completed and Taekwondo and Weightlifting now underway, this marks the first time in 71 years that the SGFI has entrusted a state of that size with such a high‑profile competition. He praised the Department of Education for its dedication in organising the games, adding that these contests enrich the state’s sports calendar, inspire greater participation among children and youth, and nurture discipline, teamwork, and healthy competition—values essential for building confident, resilient citizens.
—sc/dan
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