Friday, 24th July 2026 (Nokinketer News): Nagaland took a significant step towards strengthening its sports infrastructure with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the relocation of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Training Centre to the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex (MDSC), Dimapur. The signing ceremony was held at the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex, Kohima, on Friday.

Speaking at the programme, Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio described the MoU as the beginning of a new chapter in Nagaland’s sporting journey. He said the relocation of the SAI Training Centre marks a major milestone achieved through years of sustained efforts to strengthen the state’s sports ecosystem and create greater opportunities for young athletes.

Rio said the operationalisation of the new training centre would provide athletes with quality coaching, modern residential facilities and scientific support systems, thereby boosting sports development in Nagaland and the wider North East region.

He also expressed satisfaction over the ongoing SAI infrastructure projects at the MDSC, Dimapur, stating that these would significantly enhance the state’s training ecosystem and promote high-performance sports.

Highlighting the government’s continued investment in sports, the Chief Minister said Nagaland has been focusing on developing modern sports infrastructure, sports science, grassroots competitions, athlete welfare and capacity building. He also recalled the inauguration of 16 new sports infrastructure projects earlier this month and said several more are in the pipeline.

Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India, 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.

Stating that Nagaland possesses immense sporting talent, Dayanand stressed the need to nurture and encourage young athletes. She urged the community to view sports as a viable career option, noting that sports play an important role in shaping responsible and productive citizens.

In his welcome address, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, said the partnership reflects the government’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and building a strong sports culture in the state. He said the relocation of the training centre would provide athletes with improved opportunities to train and compete at the highest level.

Also speaking at the programme, Athletics Federation of India Vice President and Nagaland Olympic Association Secretary General Abu Metha credited Chief Minister Dr. Rio’s vision and sustained efforts for advancing sports in Nagaland despite numerous challenges.

Metha said sports have the power to unite the nation and integrate youth into the national mainstream. He also appealed to the Sports Authority of India to introduce customised sports programmes suited to the unique needs of the North East to further strengthen grassroots sports development in the region.

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