On 18 July 2024, a new chapter in the sporting history of Wokha, Nagaland, commenced with the inauguration of the Khelo India Centre for Boxing. The event was graced by Y.M. Humtsoe, MLA and Chairman of DPDB Wokha, at the Police Reserve DEF, marking a significant stride in nurturing young boxing talents from the district and beyond.
During the inauguration ceremony, Humtsoe lauded the State Government and the Department of Youth Resource & Sports for their visionary initiative in adopting the Regimental School in Wokha for this purpose. He highlighted the critical role of providing opportunities for the youth to excel in boxing and expressed his optimism that the centre would produce notable sports personalities. Humtsoe also committed to further enhancing the centre and effectively harnessing the potential of young talents.
Also Read: Wokha Circle Federation’s 3rd Annual General Meeting sets future goals
Aotula T. Imchen, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Wokha, shed light on the project, revealing that a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) had been signed between the Police Department and the Department of Youth Resource & Sports. This collaboration aims to identify and nurture young boxing talents, with the potential for the centre to evolve into a Centre of Excellence (COE) if it performs well. Imchen encouraged the youth to make the most of the facilities and opportunities provided by the centre.
Imchen expressed her gratitude to the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) for the support and infrastructure that facilitated the establishment of the Khelo India Centre. She also extended thanks to all officials involved in the project and assured that the facilities at the centre, although located at the Regimental School, would be accessible to all interested students and participants from various districts.
Also Read: Restoration of Tuli Paper Mill begins after three decades of inactivity
The centre has already appointed a dedicated permanent coach to identify and train young talents who will represent the state and potentially the nation in boxing. Currently, 14 girls and 18 boys from different schools in the Wokha district are enrolled as trainees at the centre.
K. Libemo Jami, District Youth Resources Officer (DYRO), Wokha, chaired the programme, and Sangthing Khiam, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Wokha, delivered the vote of thanks.
The inauguration of the Khelo India Centre for Boxing in Wokha marks a significant milestone for the district and the state of Nagaland. The centre provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents, hone their skills, and bring pride to their community by excelling in boxing at state, national, and international levels.
Also Read: Driver injured in Kiphire truck accident, vehicle heavily damaged
The establishment of this centre is a positive step towards promoting sports and nurturing young talents in the region, offering them the opportunity to pursue their passion and potentially build successful careers in the field of boxing.
As the centre begins its operations, it is expected to attract more young enthusiasts from the district and neighbouring areas, fostering a culture of sports and physical fitness among the youth.
