Kohima, April 14: Nagaland achieved a significant milestone in the field of sports administration as it hosted the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) for the first time. The landmark event, held in Kohima, brought together senior officials of the federation, representatives from state athletics associations, sports administrators, and stakeholders from across the country.
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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) |
Welcoming the delegates, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described the occasion as a historic moment not only for Nagaland but also for the broader sporting community of the Northeast. He said it was a matter of great honour for the state to host the AGM of one of India’s premier national sports federations, adding that the event reflected growing recognition of Nagaland’s potential in sports and youth development.
Rio noted that bringing a national-level sports administration meeting to Nagaland demonstrates a commitment to strengthening integration, inclusivity, and meaningful engagement between the Northeast and the rest of the country. He emphasized that sports serve as a powerful platform for fostering unity, promoting talent, and building stronger national connections.
The Chief Minister also expressed his appreciation to Lalit Kumar Bhanot, President of the South Asian Athletics Federation, for taking the initiative to organize the AGM in Nagaland. According to Rio, the decision to hold the meeting in Kohima sends a positive message about the importance of expanding sporting opportunities and administrative engagement to all parts of the country, including the Northeast.
He expressed hope that the deliberations and decisions taken during the AGM would contribute to the growth of athletics in India and help create new opportunities for young athletes, particularly those from underserved regions.
Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, who attended the inaugural session, also described the event as a proud and memorable occasion for Nagaland. He stated that hosting the Athletics Federation of India AGM reflects increasing confidence in the state's sporting infrastructure and the aspirations of its youth.
Patton highlighted that the presence of senior AFI officials, sports administrators, and members of the Naga athletics community added immense significance to the gathering. He said the event provides a valuable opportunity for local sports stakeholders to interact with national-level administrators and gain insights into the future direction of athletics development in the country.
Meanwhile, Adviser to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, addressed the gathering and underscored the role of sports in shaping the future of society. He said such initiatives help create history, inspire excellence, and open doors for future generations of athletes.
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Metha further noted that sports have the power to transform lives, promote discipline, and create pathways for national and international success. He encouraged greater collaboration between sports bodies and state governments to strengthen grassroots development and nurture emerging talent.
Officials said the successful hosting of the AFI AGM marks an important step in promoting sports development in the Northeast region. It also reinforces Nagaland’s growing role in the national sporting landscape and highlights the state's commitment to supporting athletics and youth empowerment.
The event is expected to further boost interest in athletics across Nagaland and pave the way for greater participation, investment, and recognition of sporting talent from the state and the wider Northeast region.
