Senapati: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has called for concerted efforts to promote and preserve the indigenous sports, traditional arts and cultural practices of different communities in Manipur.
The Chief Minister made the statement while attending a demonstration of Naga Indigenous Wrestling (Pyacha) at the Astro Turf Ground, Senapati, today. The programme was organised by the Senapati District Wrestling Association Manipur (SDWAM).
Drawing a comparison between Naga Indigenous Wrestling and the Meitei traditional wrestling form of Mukna, the Chief Minister observed that different communities have their own distinctive traditional sporting practices which deserve recognition, encouragement and promotion.
Recalling his personal interest in martial arts, Khemchand Singh said that he had practised the traditional Meitei martial art of Thang-Ta during his childhood. He further recalled that in the 1970s, when he was studying in Class IX, he was deeply impressed by Bruce Lee after watching the film Enter the Dragon, which inspired him to take up Taekwondo.
Mentioned may be made that Yumnam Khemchand Singh was recently conferred the title of Grand Master 9th DAN in Traditional Taekwondo by the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF). He was presented the title by GTTF President Grand Master Mr. Jun Lee at the inaugural function of the 1st Manipur State Poomsae Taekwondo Championship 2026, held at Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium, Imphal.
However, as years went by, he realised the importance of promoting and preserving indigenous martial arts and traditional practices. Referring to the famous 36 Chambers of Shaolin in China, which attracts people from different parts of the world to learn and conduct research on its traditional martial arts, he emphasised that Manipur’s indigenous sports and cultural heritage also have immense potential and deserve greater recognition.
The Chief Minister said that he had come to Senapati with the objective of encouraging greater promotion of Naga Indigenous Wrestling. He observed that Manipur is home to 36 communities, all of whom collectively contribute to the State, and expressed happiness that 25 communities were coming together to participate in the wrestling event.
He said that such participation sends a strong message of unity and peace among the different communities.
Emphasising the need to restore and sustain peace in the State, the Chief Minister said that the present generation of elders must make every possible effort to bring back peace and maintain it for the sake of future generations. He stressed that elders have a responsibility to work collectively towards creating a peaceful environment in which the younger generation can grow and prosper.
The programme also included an observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, paying tribute to Legendary Freedom Fighter Birsa Munda and recognising his contributions to the tribal communities of the country. On the occasion, sports gear and kits were distributed to players representing Senapati district to encourage and support young sporting talents.
The Chief Minister also formally inaugurated the exhibition football match between Senapati FC and Hills Academy (U-15 Boys), highlighting the importance of encouraging sports and nurturing young talent.
The function was attended by MLA Poanam Brojen, Commissioner (Home), Deputy Commissioner of Senapati, other government officers, teachers, students and invitees, among others.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also met with representatives of the BJP Senapati unit, Naga People’s Organisation, Senapati District Students’ Association and Senapati District Women’s Association at the DC Chamber. The representatives apprised the Chief Minister of various grievances and concerns faced by the people of Senapati district and highlighted issues requiring the attention of the State Government.
