Arunachal Sports Minister felicitates 102 athletes and coaches on National Sports Day

Arunachal Pradesh celebrated National Sports Day 2026 with a series of sporting events, youth-connect programmes and initiatives aimed at encouraging young talent and promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle under the message “Khel Se Jodo, Nasha Chhodo” (Join sports, leave drugs).

 

At the main event in Itanagar, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini and Namsai MLA C Z Namchoom felicitated more than 102 athletes and coaches, distributing a total of Rs 50 lakh in cash incentives in recognition of their achievements and contribution to sports in the state.

 

The celebrations also highlighted a major achievement by Arunachal Pradesh athletes, with sportspersons from the state securing 77 international medals in recent months, according to the organisers.

 

Speaking to the media, Minister Kento Jini said that two Arunachal athletes are set to participate in the upcoming Asian Games, describing it as a significant milestone for the state. He further said Arunachal Pradesh currently ranks second in the Northeast after Manipur in terms of sporting achievements and expressed confidence that the state would soon emerge as the leading sporting state in the region.

 

Secretary of Youth Affairs, IAS Abu Tayeng, speaking to India Today NE, emphasised the importance of sportsmanship and said the department would continue to support and recognise athletes and coaches for their contribution towards bringing pride to Arunachal Pradesh.

 

Renowned mountaineer Kabak Yano also encouraged more girls and women to take up sports, particularly mountaineering. Addressing concerns about the impact of outdoor sports on skin, she urged aspiring sportspersons not to let such worries hold them back, stressing that physical changes can be overcome, while time and sporting achievements remain valuable and lasting.

 

The National Sports Day celebrations across Arunachal Pradesh underscored the government's focus on recognising sporting talent, encouraging greater youth participation in sports and promoting sports as a means of building discipline while keeping young people away from substance abuse.