Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav recently chaired a review meeting of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) in Kohima. The Governor emphasized the importance of providing more opportunities for young people to enhance their talents, leadership skills, and sports potential. Officials briefed the Governor on the department’s achievements, ongoing programs, infrastructure projects, challenges, and future plans related to youth empowerment and sports development in the state.
The Department of YRS has been actively involved in promoting leadership development, skill enhancement, cultural engagement, volunteerism, and grassroots sports. They have been nurturing talented athletes for participation in various competitions at state, national, and international levels. Major sporting events and youth programs held during 2025-26 were reviewed, including initiatives like Nagaland’s Next Top Player, State-Level Pre-Subroto Tournament, and National Sports Day celebrations.
The review also highlighted the accomplishments of Nagaland sportspersons in disciplines such as taekwondo, sepak takraw, archery, boxing, and pencak silat. Athletes from Nagaland have secured medals and recognition at both national and international competitions. The Governor was updated on completed and ongoing infrastructure projects under schemes like Khelo India, PM-DevINE, and others, aimed at enhancing sports facilities and cultural infrastructure across Nagaland.
The meeting also covered the functioning of allied wings under the department, such as the National Service Scheme (NSS), Bharat Scouts and Guides (BS&G), and the National Cadet Corps (NCC). These wings contribute significantly to youth development, community engagement, and infrastructure development. Key challenges facing the sector, including the need for increased budgetary support for grassroots sports programs and better opportunities for persons with disabilities in sports, were discussed.
Future initiatives, including the proposed Chief Minister’s Sports Initiative, were outlined during the meeting. This initiative aims to offer scholarships, advanced coaching, and exposure opportunities to talented athletes while expanding grassroots football programs in the state. Governor Yadav commended the department for its efforts in promoting youth welfare and sporting excellence, urging officials to strengthen grassroots initiatives and ensure the broad reach of youth and sports programs across Nagaland.
Senior officers from the Department of Youth Resources and Sports attended the meeting, presenting detailed reports on various programs and projects implemented statewide.
