Journalist fraternity kicks off annual sports meet in Manipur

The annual sports meet of the journalist fraternity, organised by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), kicked off on Monday, March 2, with much enthusiasm.

 

The event began with a torch relay from the Manipur Press Club to Kangla, where the sacred flame was ceremonially taken from the ancient coronation site. The torch relay was led by Director of the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Dr Guruaribam Sunil Kumar Sharma, who served as the torchbearer.

 

Upon returning to the Manipur Press Club, Dr Sharma spoke about the essence and importance of media in a democratic society. He said that it is through the media that important messages, information and issues can be disseminated to the masses within a short span of time. Highlighting the role of the media in improving the overall health condition of society, he emphasised its responsibility in raising awareness.

 

“There are many health-related issues where the media can play a crucial role in curbing them. Problems such as the rise of non-communicable diseases, which are increasing almost like an epidemic due to sedentary lifestyles, and the shortage of organ donors despite the growing need for organ transplantation, require urgent attention. It is the need of the hour to strengthen awareness on these matters,” he said, urging the media fraternity to contribute towards building a healthier society.

 

Appreciating the initiative of organising a sports meet exclusively for journalists, Dr Sharma noted that Manipur is known for its sporting talent. He remarked that although media professionals are among the busiest sections of society, their effort to organise such an event reflects the community’s deep embrace of sports and physical well-being.

 

It may be mentioned that AMWJU has been organising the five-day sports meet annually since 2011, coinciding with the Yaoshang festival. The event aims to strengthen coordination among members of the journalist fraternity and to inculcate a spirit of sportsmanship.