J Songtun Area win SHDVSM title :: Encouraging sports culture will help Govt's 'war on drugs': Biswajit
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Kpi/Imphal, March 09 2021: Public Works Minister Thongam Biswajit Singh, today observed that encouraging and promoting sporting activities in the society will help the Chief Minister's initiative of War On Drugs.

He was speaking at the closing function of the 8th Veteran Sports Meet 2021 at Thomas Ground, Kangpokpi.

Speaking as the chief guest, the Minister expressed that the recent trend of setting up of football turfs witnessed in different parts of the State is quite encouraging.

He said it is his firm belief that a sportsperson will not fall into the habit of consuming drugs or intoxicants.

The Minister further lauded the organizers of the veteran sports meet and said that it is the veterans who have to guide the youth towards the right path.

J Songtun Area win SHDVSM title

It is only when the youth abide by the guidance of their elders, that society will produce ideal citizens.

Expressing that sports have become a profession and an important part of our education, the Minister stressed the need to encourage and promote the sports talents available in the State.

The Centre's approval for establishment of the Sports University in the State was an acknowledgement of the State's talent and performance in the field of sports, he continued.

Sports are an integral part of Manipuris, he said, adding that we should encourage our talents.

Stating that the present Government believes in inclusive development, Biswajit said Manipur can be called developed only when development reaches all corners of the State.

The closing function, which was attended by MLA Kangpokpi A/C Nemcha Kipgen as the functional president, also witnessed the final match of Veteran's football played between J Songtun Veteran and Tujang Lhang Veterans.

The final match was a close contest but neither team could find the winning goal till normal time and was thus settled via penalty shootout wherein J Songtun Area Veteran won 4-2 .

The winners were awarded with a trophy and cash prize of Rs 70,000 while the runners up team were awarded a trophy and cash prize of Rs 50,000 .

Saitu Area Veteran which beat Keithelmanbi Veteran 5-3 on penalties after a goalless draw during normal time in the contest for third place prior to the final match, were feted with a trophy and cash prize of Rs 30,000 .

The fourth place team on the other hand received a cash prize of Rs 20,000 .

Best discipline team was awarded to Liyai Kongpao Liyai Kalapahar Veteran team as Hencha of Tujang Lhang Veteran was awarded the top scorer award with 7 goals in his name.

Lenpa of Saitu Area Veteran bagged the man of the tournament award and Surchand of J Songtun Area Veteran received the best goalkeeper award.

The closing ceremony of the sports meet was also attended by members of KTC, KWWO,KYU, other CSO leaders; Chongpu Kipgen, advisor Sadar Hills District Sports Veteran Association Manipur; Lunseh Kipgen, chairman Kangpokpi Town Committee; Fr Jangkhogin Chongloi, secretary, Kangpokpi Town Churches Fellowship and various Kuki Gospel artistes.

The event culminated with the de-hoisting of the association flag by Haokholal Hangshing, former Chairman of ADC Sadar Hills.