“High time for tribals to reassess sporting outlook”
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By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Apr 11 : Manipur’s poor showing at the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games has sparked calls for a fresh look at the sporting scenario among tribals in the State.
The State’s athletes participated in four disciplines – Archery, Weightlifting, Swimming, and Athletics – but returned with only one silver medal, won by Kiuchangliu Gangmei in women’s 53 kg weightlifting.
Experts observed that the dismal show reflects poor planning and administrative lapses, and the onus shouldn’t be on athletes alone.
This reporter, who was personally invited to cover the games, also witnessed State’s athletes complaining about lack of proper preparation ahead of the games.
“Manipur has a strong pool of tribal athletes who dominate at State level,” the experts said, questioning why they failed to make a mark at the games that was hosted by the Government of Chhattisgarh in Raipur from March 25 to April 3.
State sports associations and the department concerned need to play a larger role in reigniting the sporting spirit and the sense of Nationalism among tribal youth, especially given the State’s volatile situation.
“Manipur’s stature in sports may diminish if stakeholders don’t join forces,” experts warn, calling for collective efforts to improve the State’s position in the next edition.
The game that featured 7 disciplines including Archery, Athletics, Football, Hockey, Swimming, Weightlifting and Wrestling brought together 2384 tribal athletes from across 30 States and Union Territories.
IMPHAL, Apr 11 : Manipur’s poor showing at the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games has sparked calls for a fresh look at the sporting scenario among tribals in the State.
The State’s athletes participated in four disciplines – Archery, Weightlifting, Swimming, and Athletics – but returned with only one silver medal, won by Kiuchangliu Gangmei in women’s 53 kg weightlifting.
Experts observed that the dismal show reflects poor planning and administrative lapses, and the onus shouldn’t be on athletes alone.
This reporter, who was personally invited to cover the games, also witnessed State’s athletes complaining about lack of proper preparation ahead of the games.
“Manipur has a strong pool of tribal athletes who dominate at State level,” the experts said, questioning why they failed to make a mark at the games that was hosted by the Government of Chhattisgarh in Raipur from March 25 to April 3.
State sports associations and the department concerned need to play a larger role in reigniting the sporting spirit and the sense of Nationalism among tribal youth, especially given the State’s volatile situation.
“Manipur’s stature in sports may diminish if stakeholders don’t join forces,” experts warn, calling for collective efforts to improve the State’s position in the next edition.
The game that featured 7 disciplines including Archery, Athletics, Football, Hockey, Swimming, Weightlifting and Wrestling brought together 2384 tribal athletes from across 30 States and Union Territories.