Sport incentives distributed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 25 2012: The Players' Day cum State Sports Incentive distribution ceremony was held today at Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium under the aegis of Youth Affairs and Sports Department.

The function was graced by former Commissioner of State Information Commission Ch Biren, IPR and YAS Commissioner L Lakher and former president of Manipur Olympic Association E Binoykumar as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

In addition to felicitating coaches who coached exceptional players in different disciplines during 2010, Dronacharya awardee L Ibomcha and Dhyanchand awardee Anita Chanu were also presented gifts.

Moreover, State players who won medals and gave excellent performance at Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, world championships and other international tournaments were also given cash incentives together with track suits.

However, 989 players including master athletes who represented Manipur and won laurels for the State in 2005 were not given their due incentives leaving many of them dejected.

Nevertheless, YAS officials informed that players selected for incentive awards starting from the year 2005 may collect their awards in the form of cheques and track suits from YAS office during office hours with effect from February 27 .

Ealier speaking at the function, Ch Biren lamented that the Players' Day has started losing its lustre as people are paying more attention to distribution of sports incentives.

He also sought attention of all relevant authorities to give away incentives and awards to deserving players who represented Manipur in the 34th National Games held in Jharkhand.

Observing Players' Day would be more meaningful if due attention is given to enhancing sports movement in the State rather than focusing all attention on the incentive distribution ceremony.

He also reminded about people's support and the exceptional performance of State players during the National Games held at Imphal in 1999 .

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