Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey graced the closing ceremony of the 19th Governor’s Cup State Level Fencing Championship, 2023 held on Wednesday at Indoor Stadium, SAI Takyel, Imphal.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, the Governor informed that fencing is gaining popularity in Manipur with the initiative of Manipur Fencing Association established in the year 1976, a release from the Raj Bhavan said.
She continued that fencers from Manipur have demonstrated their superiority by winning medals in the National Games held in the country and she was delighted that Manipuri women fencers have won gold, silver and bronze medals in many championships in the senior category at the international level. Fencing, once intended for combat purposes, is now a modern competitive sport in the world that requires a lot of skill, agility and presence of mind, she added.
She further stated that Manipur has produced a good number of fencers and have brought home medals in many national and international competitions/championships including the recently concluded National Games held in Goa. She congratulated the award winners for their success and encouraged the participants who were unable to clinch the medal in this championship and said active participation in the contest is important, the Raj Bhavan said.
She stated that the youth of Manipur have an innate talent for sports and due to this quality, they showcase exemplary performance in various sporting events including fencing. The players of the state have also displayed their excellent sports at the international level and are the pride of the state in their field. Recognizing the inherent quality and talent in sports, the Government of India has approved the setting up of Sports University in Manipur, she said.
“Sports play an important role in character building of youth. It promotes discipline, brotherhood and social harmony which Manipur needs today.” Th governor urged the youth to stay away from drugs as drug addiction destroys the energy of the youth, the moral fabric of people and makes them forget their ancient rich cultural heritage.
Regarding the prevailing law and order situation in Manipur, the Governor informed that central and state governments are making continuous efforts to restore peace, harmony and brotherhood. She also appealed to all to cooperate with the state machinery, security forces, ignore rumours, use your discretion and maintain peace and not resort to any forms of violence. She expressed confidence that with the cooperation of all sections, peace and harmony will be established in the state like before.
Later, the Governor handed over the trophy for overall team champion to the Imphal East team.
M. Lokendro Singh, President, Manipur Fencing Association and Th. Joykumar Singh, Former President, Manipur Fencing Association also graced the occasion as President and Guest of Honour respectively.
