CM moots upgrade of Manoranjan tourney to national level
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, March 05 2023:
With reference to 45 players from the state playing in the prestigious Indian League Football Tournament representing different clubs, chief minister N Biren Singh exclaimed that the future of Indian football lies in Manipur.
Speaking at the closing ceremony cum prize distribution function of the 13th Shaheed Manoranjan Singh Memorial State Open Football Tournament-2003 at SAI Sports Complex, Takyel on Sunday, the chief minister pointed out that in view of substantial number of Manipuri footballers playing for the national team the state government has made budgetary allocation to establish one each football and badminton academy in the state.
He also stated that in-spite of its comparatively small population Manipur has been contributing a lot in the held of games and sports.
Expressing his desire for upgrade of the Manoranjan memorial tournament to the national level, he suggested that the CRPF prepare and submit proposal for the same.
He also proposed that the CRPF conduct the tournament at Khuman Lampak main stadium from next year.
Stating that the state government is giving priority to development and popularisation of some specific sports disciples which are suited to the physical characteristics of the people of Manipur, N Biren also informed that seven new football grounds would be developed in the state for which requisite funds have already been allocated in the budget.
With regard to the upcoming tri-nation football tournament which the state would be hosting later this month, the chief minister credited achievement of the Manipuri sportspersons for getting the opportunity to organise such a prestigious competition.
Meanwhile, the final match of the Shaheed Manoranjan tournament was played between Sagolband United and Classic Football Academy which the latter won by 7-0 score margin.
During the programme, the chief minister also honoured Ng Memcha, mother of Shaheed Manoranjan Singh.
Manipur Electronic Development Corporation chairman S Kunjakeswor Singh, Director General of Police, Manipur P Doungel, BABINA Group chairman and managing director of Dr Thangjam Dhabali and senior officials of CRPF also attended the closing ceremony among others.