Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Indian media that the North‑Eastern region needs a fresh, practical boost for its sports scene. In a video‑conferenced meeting on Wednesday, he and Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla kicked off the second session of a high‑level task force that aims to build a stronger sports ecosystem across the eight states.
Key points from the discussion
- Coaching and talent scouting matter more than big stadiums. Scindia said India’s success in the region will come from committed coaches, grassroots scouting, and the creation of local leagues and academies.
- Integrated support from government and private partners. The team highlighted the need for better infrastructure, sports science, funding, and data governance, with both the public and private sector working together.
- Give young players more chances to shine. Governor Bhalla praised the new initiatives, pointing to training programs, talent development and regional leagues as pathways for local athletes to compete nationally and abroad.
- Build on each state’s strengths. Bhalla urged states to use their unique cultural and sporting assets to design tailored programs.
- Ministry’s firm commitment. Union Minister‑of‑State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse reaffirmed that the Ministry will keep investing in grassroots training, infrastructure, and exposure for athletes in the Northeast.
Other officials, including the Mizoram Sports Minister, chief secretaries of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram, and senior NEC and DoNER officials, also took part in the virtual meeting.
Why this matters for the North‑Eastern region
The region, known for its rich cultural heritage and untapped sports talent, has long faced uneven sports development. By setting short‑, medium‑ and long‑term action plans, the high‑level task forces aim to improve sports infrastructure, create more competitions, and bring better coaching to the area. This effort comes after the NEC’s 72nd plenary session in Agartala last November, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the council.
As India pushes to highlight its diverse athletic potential, a focused strategy in the North‑Eastern region could turn local talent into national champions and inspire the next generation of athletes.
Source: ianslive
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