ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, May 28:  The 6th State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Football & Volleyball Trophy kicked off with great enthusiasm and a powerful message from Ministers Taba Tedir and Mama Natung. The event took place at the Sangay Lhaden Sports  Academy (SLSA) Chimpu , Itanagar, drawing participants from 25 districts of the state.
During the inaugural ceremony, Minister of Education Taba Tedir and Sports Minister Mama Natung made a resounding declaration, stating that the "Olympics is our target." This statement reflects their vision and determination to nurture and support talented athletes from the region, with the ultimate aim of representing India on the global stage.
Emphasizing the importance of sports, Tedir who attended the inaugural event as chief guest appealed to the youth to stay away from drugs and invest their energy and passion in sports. He highlighted the transformative power of sports, not only in shaping individuals physically and mentally but also in promoting unity, discipline, and healthy lifestyles. By actively engaging in sports, the youth can channel their energies positively and contribute to the overall development of the nation, he added.
The tournament itself comprises both football and volleyball matches in the under 16 boys and girls categories. The presence of players from all 25 districts showcases the widespread interest and participation in these sports, reflecting the immense talent pool present in the state, said Natung.
He added that, the government is mulling to extend all possible support to talented players so that our players would represent  Arunachal and India as a whole in the Olympics. As the games commence, the focus on nurturing young athletes and fostering a culture of sportsmanship and fair play remains at the forefront. The tournament not only provides a platform for showcasing talent but also offers an opportunity for participants to learn, grow, and form lasting bonds through the spirit of healthy competition, asserted the Minister Sports.
The event also serves as a poignant tribute to Hangpan Dada, a brave soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice for India while fighting terrorists. He was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime military decoration in August 2016. Dada's heroism and dedication continues to inspire the nation, and the memorial tournament is a fitting tribute to his memory. The participants in this tournament embody the spirit of courage, resilience, and patriotism that Hangpan Dada exemplified, said Director Sports Tadar Appa.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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