Speaking at the reception ceremony organised by IPSA, Minister Rajen said that sports can be opted as a challenging career. Sport players of the state have popularised the state at the national and international arenas, he said. “Manipur is considered as the sports house of India. The state has considerably produced many talented players. They have brought laurels for the state and the nation as well. We can be proud of our sports stars,” he added.

He further said that the government has initiated many welfare schemes for the state players. Many successful players have been inducted to suitable posts in the state government departments. MC Mary Kom has been nominated to Rajya Sabha as an honour to her feat in the field of sports and many more examples can be cited, he mentioned.

Raising concerns that there are reports of disagreements existing between members of sports organisations of the state, he said that this is unfortunate and must be stopped.

Understanding among the office bearers and members of sport associations should be built up and they should work in the interest of the players, he added.

He further maintained that players should not get satisfied just after winning a medal. Instead they should put more effort deliberately with a strong determination. The nation reserves rooms for the successful players of the state, he added.

IPSA president T Birjit attended the occasion as president. Prominent sports persons of the state, Officials from YAS and SAI, leaders of civil groups and others also attended the occasion.

It may be mentioned that Manipur won 25-Gold, 19-Silver and 15-Bronze Medals during the recently concluded 20th Junior National Wushu (Boys/Girls) Championship. Manipur was also declared Team Champion in the tournament.