Rio assures construction of Indoor wrestling stadium

Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio and other dignitaries releasing the NWA souvenir in Kohima on March 10: (Morung Photo)

Our Correspondent
Kohima | March 10 

Nagaland Chief Minister Niephiu Rio today informed that the State Government would construct an indoor wrestling stadium to encourage young wrestlers. 

Speaking at the 27th Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) championship in Kohima, the CM  stressed on the need to promote indigenous Naga wrestling.

He expressed happiness that Naga wrestling has gained momentum with the series of championship and promotions within and outside the country.

He announced to extend all possible support from the state government, and as a way forward he declared to construct an Indoor wrestling stadium to facilitate and encourage the wrestlers.

He further stated that prizes for the winners should be enhanced in order to attract more participation.

As the inaugural guest, MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu while paying tribute the pioneers and the leaders also congratulated NWA for attaining the milestone and lauded the association for introducing the first under-16 category championship.

Introduction of Naga wrestling in other districts

NWA president Neivikuolie Khatsu in his presidential address hoped that the wrestlers will perform much better and will be able to compete with the rest of the country in free style, Greco Roman and belt wrestling.

He said that Naga style of wrestling right now is confined only to Kohima, Phek and Peren districts. He stated that the sport needs to be introduced to other districts and even to mainland India.

“For the development of Naga style wrestling a time has also come now that weight category is needed to be applied for a fair and just game, alike any other contact sport. More competition is required to let the wrestlers be more professional,” Khatsu said.

Commenting on the NWA’s 50th anniversary, he said “I take the privilege on behalf of Nagaland Wrestling Association and all wrestling fraternity to pay our homage and acknowledge the founding members and all the office bearers of the Association who took it upon themselves the task of shouldering the responsibilities of preserving our rich culture and tradition. May the blessings of the pioneers and the hard work of all, raise NWA to greater heights.”

The inaugural function was chaired by Dr. Haibe Zeliang while lighting of NWA torch was done by former NWA president, Kuhupoyo Puro with NWA reigning champion Menuosetuo Yiese as torch bearer.

Senior state wrestling coach, Chisazo Dawhuo administered oath to the wrestlers and tournament officials.