Kohima, April 16 (MExN): As part of the Annual General Meeting of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) held in Kohima, an official meeting was convened between the federation’s leadership and district athletics associations of Nagaland to strengthen grassroots development and institutional coordination.
Representatives from all district associations across the state participated in the meeting, which provided a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas between the national body and district-level stakeholders.
Key deliberations focused on restructuring and strengthening district associations, conducting regular competitions at the grassroots level, and expanding AFI’s education and certification programmes for coaches and technical officials. Emphasis was laid on capacity building, standardisation of practices, and creating a strong pipeline for talent identification and development across Nagaland.
The meeting was addressed by Lalit Kumar Bhanot, President of the South Asian Athletics Federation; Bahadur Singh, President of AFI; Adille Sumariwalla, Vice President of World Athletics; and Abu Metha, Vice President of AFI. The dignitaries highlighted the importance of inclusivity, grassroots engagement and the role of athletics in promoting youth development and national integration.
In continuation of its social responsibility initiatives, AFI leaders and delegates also visited the Kohima Orphanage and Destitute Home as part of the AFI Community Outreach Programme. The delegation interacted with children and the local community, offering encouragement and distributing gifts.
The outreach was led by renowned sportsperson Anju Bobby George, a Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee, along with a team of athletes and officials. Their presence served as an inspiration to the children, reinforcing values of discipline, perseverance and aspiration through sport.
Coinciding with the visit, the orphanage marked its 53rd Foundation Day. Members of the Sunshine Orchestra, a musical initiative mentored by A. R. Rahman, presented musical performances, while Ms Neibanuo, caretaker of the orphanage, delivered words of appreciation.
The engagements reflect AFI’s continued commitment to strengthening athletics at all levels while contributing to society through community-oriented initiatives. Officials said the activities in Kohima underline the federation’s broader vision of integrating sport with social development and nation-building.
