TEZU, Dec 2: Aimed at advancing the racket sport in the region and providing a competitive platform for emerging talent from across Arunachal Pradesh, Kalikho Pul Memorial State Level Table Tennis Championship got underway here in Lohit district today, with a vibrant ceremony that celebrated sportsmanship, youth empowerment and the growing table tennis culture in Arunachal Pradesh.
Organised by the Lohit District Table Tennis Association (LDTTA) in collaboration with the Department of Sports and the District Administration (Lohit), the three-day event will witness participating players engaged in tough fight in various categories to take top honours.
Speaking as chief guest on the occasion, Lohit Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo inspired participants with the message, “Jeet ka pehla lakshan hai atma vishwas” while stressing that discipline, hard work and determination are the foundation of excellence in any sport.
The DC encouraged youth to look beyond conventional career choices such as SP, DC, doctor or engineer, and to consider sports as a powerful medium to serve society and bring pride to their district.
He cited the achievements of icons like Mary Kom, Baichung Bhutia and Hima Das to highlight how sportspersons from the Northeast have made India proud globally. Sharing his personal passion for adventure sports, he also mentioned his role as Chairman of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (NE Zone), motivating participants to pursue their dreams with courage and perseverance.
Earlier, welcoming the gathering, the LDTTA Chairman expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries, sponsors and supporters for nurturing budding sportspersons. He urged players to maintain discipline, respect and fair play throughout the tournament.
Representing the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI), the vice president (Arunachal Pradesh) thanked the State government and Lohit District Administration for providing a meaningful platform for young athletes. Highlighting the sport’s rapid growth in the State, he noted that TTFI-registered players have risen from only 20 in the early years of the championship to 153 players today.
Further, he emphasised the role of sports in combating social challenges like drug abuse, adding the strong message: “Drug chhodo, khel se judo.”
Thoudam Sanamatum, Commandant 125th Battalion ITBP, complimented the positive values and discipline that sports instill. Reflecting on his eight years in Arunachal Pradesh, he noted the remarkable rise of sports culture in the region and extended best wishes to all participants.
In his speech, Director Sports Authority of Arunachal (SAA) Gumya Karbak appreciated the Lohit District Administration for successfully organising yet another major sports event. He encouraged youth to pursue at least one sport seriously, reminding them of the opportunities sports can offer, including government jobs under the sports quota.
Moreover, the Director SAA motivated players with the words, “Kheloge kudoge, banoge lajawab.”
At the end, LDTTA general secretary Amikso Chai expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, departments, sponsors and volunteers for their support in making the inaugural event a grand success. (DIPRO)