MODIfied Northeast India to promote indigenous sports in the region

Sanjita Khumukcham poses with her gold medal at the Commonwealth Games

Imphal, Aug 6 (IANS) The success of sportspersons from the North East in international tournaments has prompted a social group, MODIfied Northeast India, to promote indigenous games and groom talent in the region.

Naorem Mohen, the founder of MODIfied Northeast India, said they have identified some indigenous sports and will be grooming youngsters.

"We have selected a few indigenous games from the northeastern states. Most of these games are the traditional version of modern day wrestling, judo, fencing and kabaddi. We will be hosting sports festivals and competitions where these sports will be showcased," said Mohen.

The sports are indigenous forms of wrestling in Manipur like mukna, thang-ta, sarit sarak, kangjei and cheibia. Traditional Mizo wrestling forms like inbuan and insuknawr have also been selected along with Naga wrestling, hinam turnam of Arunachal Pradesh, dhopkhel of Assam and achugwui phan sohlaimung of Tripura.

Referring to the splendid show by Haryana athletes in wrestling at the Commonwealth Games, Mohen said it was possible due to their close association with the traditional akharas or wrestling pits.

"Northeast India is located at the farthest corner of the country and it lacks sponsorship, exposure to modern technology and other facilities. To fill the gap, MODIfied Northeast India is seeking support and sponsors from industrialists and companies, in addition to the central government projects, to boost the morale of our athletes," he said.

Weightlifter Khumukcham Sanjita Devi of Manipur made the nation proud by winning the first gold medal on the opening day of competitions. Manipuri girls Mirabai Chanu Saikhom (women's 48 kg weightlifting) and judoka Shushila Likmabam won silver medals.

Manipuri boxers Sarita Devi and Devendro Singh also won silver medals while Tripura's Dipa Karmakar became the first Indian female gymnast to win an international medal, a bronze, in Glasgow.