Arunachal sports minister slams Olympic association over mismanagement despite Rs 5 crore funding

Arunachal Pradesh Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini has strongly criticised the Arunachal Olympic Association (AOA) for alleged mismanagement during the 4th State Games 2025, despite a sanctioned budget of Rs 5 crore.
 

Speaking to India Today NE, Minister Jini expressed deep disappointment over written complaints and lapses reported during the multi-sport event. “I am really upset with the performance of the Arunachal Olympic Association. Written complaints have been submitted by district presidents, secretaries, and players regarding the lack of facilities,” he stated.
 

The minister further informed that Rs 5 crore was allocated to organise the event in a better way, but on the last day, formal written complaints detailing serious shortcomings were received. "We have framed a Sports Policy to promote sports in the state, but such mismanagement by organizing committees breaks the spirit of sportspersons,” he said. 
 

He emphasised that every rupee of the fund will be audited, as it is public money from the state exchequer. He also warned that necessary reforms would be made within the Arunachal Olympic Association if required, stating, “The AOA has laid certain norms, but if necessary, we will change the whole committee.”
 

The organising committee has come under heavy criticism from participants due to multiple logistical and management issues. Athletes highlighted the following concerns:
 

1. Lack of proper accommodation – Many participants were left without adequate lodging.
2. Scarcity of water in toilets and washrooms – Basic hygiene needs were compromised.
3. Inadequate dietary provisions – Food provided did not meet nutritional requirements.
4. Failure to distribute jerseys and tracksuits – Several athletes did not receive essential sportswear.
5. Poor transportation arrangements – Transportation to and from venues was poorly managed.
6. Absence of a proper sports schedule – A clear timetable was not provided, leading to confusion.
    

In addition to these major concerns, several other issues were reported, raising serious questions about the event's planning and execution.
 

A participant, expressing disappointment, shared: “As participants in a prestigious state-level event, we did not anticipate encountering such a series of shortcomings and mismanagement. It is deeply disheartening to experience these challenges, especially at a platform meant to celebrate athletic excellence. We sincerely appeal to the organizing committee to ensure proper arrangements and improved standards in future events. This experience has left us extremely disappointed.”
 

The five-day multi-sport event, designed to promote athletic talent and sportsmanship, features competitions across 22 disciplines including archery, boxing, football, wrestling, skating, and more. A total of 3,235 athletes, along with technical officials, are participating across various venues including ICR, RGU, and the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia.
 

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu officially inaugurated the 4th edition of the Arunachal State Games at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia on April 18. During the inauguration, he announced that the Games will now be held annually as part of the state’s official sports calendar.
 

The 4th Arunachal State Games-2025 was held from April 18 to 22, and spanned five days of intense competition and athletic celebration.