Imphal: A Blessing Ceremony of Manipur State Contingent participating in the 37th Goa National Games, 2023 was held today at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh handing over the Manipur Olympic Association’s Flag to the Chef-De-Mission Shri Bobby Waikhom, Commissioner, Government of Manipur.
The Blessing Ceremony was organized by the Manipur Olympic Association. All together 560 persons, including 406 players (180 males and 226 females), 76 coaches, 56 team managers and 22 MOA officials and others, will be representing our State in the upcoming 37th Goa National Games, 2023 which is scheduled to be held from 25th October to 9th November, 2023,
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh praised the players of the State, mentioning that they have been bringing laurels for the State in certain national and international events, thereby holding a big spot in the field of games and sports in the world. He further appreciated local clubs and other associations which have been putting much effort in grooming our players at the grassroots level. He also appreciated the role of the Youth Affairs and Sports (YAS) Department, Sports Authority of India and Manipur Olympic Association for various achievements in games and sports.
The Chief Minister maintained that winning or losing is not the main thing that matters to a player, adding that what matters is giving our best performance in the field. By giving our best performances, we can achieve our goal, he said.
He expressed hopefulness that the Manipur team would bag more medals this time, informing that out of 48 disciplines for which athletes are competing in the upcoming National Games, athletes from our State can participate in 26 disciplines. He further advised the participating contingents to maintain unity and discipline under the supervision of the Chef-De-Mission, as they are going as a team representing our State. Maintaining discipline is very important to achieve success, the Chief Minister said, wishing the participating contingents to bring medals for the State.
N. Biren further informed that he himself and YAS Minister Shri Govindas Konthoujam were invited by the Chief Minister of Goa for the event. However, considering the current law and order situation prevailing in the State, he would not go, as he cannot leave the State for even a while, he added.
YAS Minister Govindas Konthoujam, MLA of Andro ACTh. Shyamkumar, MLA of Lamlai AC Kh. Ibomcha, MLA of Wangkhei ACTh. Arunkumar, officials of Sports Department, Manipur Olympic Association, coaches and players also attended the programme.
