Dr Ranjan calls for promoting indigenous games
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 19 2023: The three-day 3rd Governor's Mukna Kangjei Trophy organised by Kreeda Bharati Manipur at Ima Laikhulembi Lampak, Khurai Kongpal Sajor Leikai from February 16 concluded on Sunday.

The valedictory function of the tournament was attended by Union minister of state for external affairs Dr Rk Ranjan as chief guest, Youth Affairs and Sports minister K Govindas as president and Education minister Th Basanta Kumar Singh and Kreeda Bharati 'maha mantri' Keshavlal Chowdhary as the guests of honour.

In his address, Dr Rk Ranjan said that he never had the chance to witness Mukna Kangjei during his childhood even though he heard about the indigenous game.

Recalling that he got acquainted with the game for the first time on the sidelines of an All India Vice Chancellor Conference held at Manipur University in 1985, he expressed elation over getting the opportunity to physically experience the game for the second time on Sunday.

Informing that the state has a number of indigenous games, Rk Ranjan said that the Ministry of Sports under the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is working to promote indigenous games through Khelo India campaign and other sporting events.

While noting that Mukna Kangjei is being frequently mentioned in Manipuri literatures and during historical discourses, Rk Ranjan stressed the need to promote and popularise the game among the new generations.

He also lauded Kreeda Bharati for organising the tournament and wished for continuation of the same in the coming years.

The final of the tournament was played between teams of Imphal West and Bishnupur districts with the latter scripting victory at 10-2 score.

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