Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday attended the final match of the 13th Chief Minister Trophy Kang Tournament at the Manipur Kangshang, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, before later gracing the closing ceremony of the 2nd MPC Trophy Football Tournament at Hiyangthang Kangjeibung in Imphal.
Addressing participants and spectators at the Kang tournament, the Chief Minister highlighted the rich heritage of Kang, one of Manipur’s oldest indigenous games. He stated that the game was first introduced during the reign of King Loitongba and underscored the importance of preserving traditional sports as part of the state’s cultural identity.
Recalling the origins of the Chief Minister’s Kang Trophy, Singh noted that the tournament was initiated in 1999 by former Chief Minister Wahengbam Nipamacha Singh. Congratulating the Manipur Kang Association and the players for their sustained efforts in promoting the traditional game, he praised their dedication in ensuring the continued popularity of Kang across generations.
As part of the government’s commitment to encouraging indigenous sports, the Chief Minister announced a contribution of Rs 1 lakh from the Chief Minister’s account, continuing the annual tradition of support for the tournament.
The closing function was attended by Sapam Nishikant Singh, MLA of Keishamthong Assembly Constituency; Dr Mayengbam Veto Singh, Director of Youth Affairs and Sports (YAS); Meikam Jadumani Singh, President of the Manipur Kang Association; members of the association, players, and sports enthusiasts.
In the tournament final, NBKA emerged champions after defeating Gopaldev Kangkhut by 28-14 panjal. W Premjit of NBKA was adjudged Best Lamtha and also received the Man of the Match award, while teammate Kh Ithoi secured the Best Chekphei title.
Later in the day, while addressing the closing ceremony of the 2nd MPC Trophy Football Tournament, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him by local residents. Referring to the slogans calling for unity among the people, he said they reflected the collective aspiration for peace, harmony and togetherness in the state.
Singh observed that sports have long served as a powerful platform for fostering friendship and unity. Drawing parallels with the Olympic Games, he noted that athletes from different nations come together, interact and build lasting bonds. He added that sporting events across India similarly promote integration and mutual understanding among diverse communities.
“Manipur has always embodied this spirit of unity through sports,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Highlighting the state’s sporting achievements, Singh said that the Prime Minister’s decision to establish the National Sports University in Manipur was recognition of the exceptional talent and credibility of Manipuri sportspersons. He further informed the gathering that reports received by the government indicate that all infrastructure works at the university are expected to be completed within the current year.
The football tournament’s closing ceremony was attended by Konthoujam Govindas Singh, Minister for Home and Youth Affairs & Sports; Karam Shyam Singh, MLA of Langthabal Assembly Constituency; Sagolshem Kebi Devi, MLA of Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly Constituency; Naorem Praveen Singh, Secretary, Youth Affairs and Sports; Dr Mayengbam Veto Singh, Director, YAS; former India football team captain P Renedy Singh; former India football player Lourembam Lolendra Singh; officials, club members, players and local residents.
The twin sporting events highlighted the state’s continued commitment to promoting both traditional and modern sports while reinforcing the role of athletics in fostering unity and social cohesion across Manipur.