Governor launches Assam Rifles Women Polo Team
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 06 2024:
Governor Anusuiya Uikey attended the launch function of the Assam Rifles Women Polo Team held at Haflong Auditorium, IGAR (South), Mantripukhri, Imphal East on Monday.
Addressing the gatherings, the Governor hailed Manipur as a place renowned for its rich cultural heritage and prowess in the field of sports, often known as powerhouse of sports in India.
Noting that Manipuri Polo, also known as 'Sagol Kangjei', holds a significant place in the history of the country, she informed that this ancient sport, with its agile Manipuri ponies and skilled players, stands as a symbol of the state's vibrant identity.
The emergence of the AR Women Polo Team is an honour to the glorious past and for creating a brighter, more inclusive future, Anusuiya expressed.
While sharing her experience in various fields working for the empowerment of women in India, the Governor lauded the AR for taking such profound step towards empowering women.
"By fostering opporturiities for women to excel in traditionally male-dominateci fields, a powerful message of equality and progress is delivered," she said.
The Governor continued that the women of Manipur have long proven their strength and resilience, and the AR Women Polo Team is yet another shining example of the indomitable spirit of state's womenfolk.
She mentioned that such event holds particular significance in light of recent events in Manipur,as such occasion can help heal the communities and bring people together towards the path of peace and oneness.
She expressed optimism that today s gathering will serve as a reminder of the shared love for sports, culture, and the commitment to fostering a better future for Manipur while re-dedicating towards fostering peace, harmony, and the spirit of Manipuri Polo in our state.
While extending her wishes to the AR Women Polo Team, Anusuiya highlighted the values that define the sport: courage, discipline and camaraderie and stated that these qualities are essential in both the game of polo and the quest for a more prosperous Manipur.
The Governor also appreciated AR for their indomitable role during the ethnic strife that started in Manipur in May 3,2023 to control and contain the violence.
She also lauded AR for their initiative for education for the children of all communities in Manipur as part of the Centre of Educational Excellence programme.
On the other hand, Lt Gen PC Nair emphasised the importance of women in various fields, including sports.
AR Women Polo Team players were also felicitated by the Governor during the programme.
State security advisor Kuldiep Singh, Assam Rifles DG Lt Gen PC Nair, IGmajor general, officers, soldiers of the AR, members of the Assam Rifles Women Polo Team were also present at the event.
Meanwhile, a release by PRO IGAR (S) informed that the AR Women Polo Team comprises six women soldiers hailing from Manipur, namely, rifle-women Victoria Oinam, H Pitu Devi, Thangjam Bindi Chanu, Veronica Oinam, Mangangcha Mutum Enourembi and M Laxmi Devi.
The team was formed through a rigorous selection process in 2023, as part of the Force's sports recruitment drive.
These remarkable women have dedicated the past year to training not only as soldiers but also honing their abilities in Manipuri Polo, it mentioned.
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