Kohima, Oct 12 – Nagaland’s acting Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, said sports help keep the state peaceful and bring people together. He spoke at the last day of the eighth‑year Niathu Sports Festival, which ran this week in Dimapur and drew athletes from across India.
### Sports bridge divides
“Sports break down barriers, foster understanding, and teach us to resolve differences through respect, not conflict,” Gov. Bhalla told the crowd. He praised the festival as more than a competition. “It’s a celebration of youth, health and solidarity,” he added.
The Governor, who also heads the state of Manipur, noted that Nagaland’s calm and stable environment lets its young people dream and compete freely.
### Big names in attendance
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Army commander Lt‑Gen A.S. Pendharkar, and other dignitaries were in the audience. The presence of such leaders underscored the event’s importance for the state’s social cohesion.
### Niathu’s growing reputation
Bhalla called the Niathu Sports Festival “one of Nagaland’s most anticipated sporting events.” Over the years the event has turned Dimapur into a “vibrant meeting ground for athletic talent” and attracted competitors from every corner of the country.
This year, the festival boasted record participation. Athletes from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Goa, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Assam and many other states joined in. “Your presence reminds us that sports transcend boundaries,” he said, emphasizing unity across regions, cultures and languages.
### It’s about more than medals
The Governor reminded participants that the festival is about more than trophies. “It promotes healthy lifestyles, nurtures young talent, and fosters a sense of belonging,” he said. He encouraged athletes to carry teamwork, perseverance and respect into their everyday lives.
Gov. Bhalla urged everyone to become “citizen athletes,” using the same passion and discipline in daily actions. “Whether you win a medal or simply create cherished memories, you are all winners. The real prize is the strength of character you build,” he said.
### A message of hope
The Governor hoped the Niathu Sports Festival would keep growing as a beacon of youth, health, peace and community spirit—not only in Nagaland but across the country. He called on all participants to become ambassadors of sportsmanship, fitness and positivity, inspiring future generations.
The festival began with a welcome address by Basu Damani, the Festival Advisor, followed by a tournament report from Khriemelie Metha of the Core Committee. A musical duo, Vetho Rakho and Azi Rudy, entertained the hosts. Winners and participants received prizes, and Wati Jamir, also a Festival Advisor, closed the event by thanking partners, volunteers and spectators.
In a short, upbeat tone, Gov. Bhalla’s remarks highlighted how a simple game can build peace and bring communities together—an idea that keeps Nagaland’s sporting future bright.
Source: ianslive
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