Kohima, April 14: Nagaland marked a historic moment in Indian sports administration as the state hosted the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Athletics Federation of India for the first time, with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio welcoming delegates to Kohima.
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| Officials and delegates attend the Annual General Meeting of the Athletics Federation of India in Kohima, marking the first time a national sports federation AGM is hosted in Nagaland.(Image:x.com/YanthungoPatton) |
Addressing the gathering, Rio said it was an honour for Nagaland to host the national sports federation’s AGM, describing the occasion as a significant milestone for the state. He noted that bringing the meeting to Nagaland reflects efforts to strengthen integration, inclusivity and meaningful connections between the Northeast and the national mainstream.
The Chief Minister also expressed appreciation to Lalit Kumar Bhanot, president of the South Asian Athletics Federation, for his initiative in organising the AGM in Nagaland. He expressed hope that the meeting would not only be historic in symbolism but also productive in outcomes.
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, who attended the inaugural session, described the event as a proud milestone for the state. He said hosting the AGM reflects growing confidence in Nagaland’s sporting ecosystem and the rising aspirations of its youth.
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Patton also noted that the presence of senior officials from the Athletics Federation of India and the participation of the Naga Athletics community added significance to the occasion.
Meanwhile, Adviser to the Chief Minister Abu Metha addressed the gathering in Kohima, highlighting the importance of shaping history, driving national sporting success and creating future opportunities through such initiatives.
Officials said the event marks a significant step in promoting sports development in the Northeast while strengthening Nagaland’s role in the national sporting landscape.
