Last Updated on April 25, 2023 by SPN Editor

Imphal (SPN) | Chief Minister N Biren has stated that a football academy would be set up in the State in collaboration between Argentina Football Academy and the State Government.

The announcement was made at the inauguration of the third Chintan Shivir of Ministers of Youth Affairs and Sports of different States and Union Territories at Imphal yesterday.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur stressed the need for the Centre and States to come together for the promotion of games and sports in the country by sharing ideas and strategies for developing the sector.

An approximate amount of Rs 900 crore will be spent on developing the first National Sports University in Manipur.

Anurag Thakur also spoke about the popularity of indigenous games in the state of Manipur, noting that the Indian government has also incorporated many of these traditional games into the Khelo India Programme. Thakur emphasized the importance of promoting these traditional games on an international level.

During his speech, Thakur also highlighted the achievements of Indian sports personalities who have won awards at national and international sporting events. He recognized the contributions of different states in various sports disciplines and praised the success of women athletes.

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister N Biren extended a warm welcome to all the participants of the conference and stated that the State Government is extending every possible support to promote sports culture and sportspersons in the State.

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Biren concludes that the conference held in Imphal recognizes the significant contributions made by Manipuri sportspersons and youth towards Nation building. Despite its small population, Manipur has produced numerous medallists, including 19 Olympians, in various disciplines, which highlights its proud and vibrant sporting history and culture.

The National conference aims to help shape a framework for State Governments and stakeholders towards charting a trajectory for the country towards the growth and development of youth and sports.

Under pioneering initiatives like Khelo India, the Government is continuing to create a conducive environment for sports to thrive in India. The Khelo India scheme has proved to be a catalyst in turning India into a sporting Nation, giving a platform to grassroots athletes and building sports infrastructure across the country.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India approved the opening of 32 Khelo India Centres across 16 districts of the State.

The Khelo India State Centre of Excellence in three sports disciplines of Archery, Hockey and Weightlifting will also start very soon, and the construction of the National Sports University (NSU) is nearing completion, which would play an important role in shaping the future of sports in India.

The State Government is extending every possible support to promote sports culture and sportspersons in the State. Upgradation of Khuman Lampak Sports Complex through the PPP model and as an externally aided project is also underway.

Integration of Sports Science, use of artificial intelligence and video analysis in the training of young budding athletes in collaboration with private partners will help in developing sports in the State.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke on the contribution of the North East States, especially Manipur in the field of sports and the importance of the conference.

The Chintan Shivir would have sessions on various topics including Yuva Portal, Restructuring the National Youth Festival, Overview of Khelo India and other schemes of the Government of India, Innovation in Sports Sector, Issues and Challenges in Sports Governance and Improving engagement among stakeholders in the sports sector.

Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Union Territory of Chandigarh Banwarilal Purohit, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (YAS) Nisith Pramanik, YAS Minister of different States and Union Territories, Secretary (Sports) and Secretary (Youth Affairs), Chief Secretary, Manipur and senior officials of Government of India and various State Governments also attended the inaugural programme, among others.