Raksha Khadse reviews the local sports ecosystem in Mizoram
AIZAWL: Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports Raksha Khadse Tuesday visited Aizawl, Mizoram, to review the local sports ecosystem. The visit aimed to enhance sports infrastructure, support athletes and widen opportunities for sporting talent in the Northeast aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a robust sporting culture.
During her discussions with Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mizoram's Minister for Sports & Youth Services, they focused on improving Centre-State coordination, developing sports facilities, nurturing talent and creating opportunities for young athletes. Khadse toured the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Aizawl engaging with athletes and coaches to understand their training experiences and aspirations. She asserted the need for quality coaching, scientific support, rehabilitation, nutrition and exposure to competitions for young sportspersons.
The government is advancing infrastructure projects, notably the Khelo India initiative, which includes a synthetic hockey turf at the SAI Training Centre aimed at bolstering hockey facilities in the state. Khadse recognised Mizoram's sports potential, particularly in football and hockey underscored by the achievements of athletes like Lalremsiami Hmarzote, Mizoram’s first female Olympian.
In her address, Khadse reiterated the government's commitment to creating a comprehensive athlete development ecosystem integrated with quality infrastructure, coaching and regular competition exposure. She highlighted the role of Khelo India in expanding opportunities and nurturing grassroots talent.
Khadse asserted that the Northeast has a important role in India's sporting landscape and that bolstering local facilities, expanding talent opportunities, and ensuring collaboration between the Union and State Governments are essential for elevating sportspersons from the region to national and international stages. Her visit reinforced the focus on strengthening sports prospects for Northeast youth, driven by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and SAI's ongoing initiatives to foster an athlete-centric sporting environment.