Imphal, March 08: Foundation stone for a district sports complex was laid by Chief Minister O Ibobi today at Mayangkhang village in Senapati district today.

The district sports complex with estimated cost of Rs 15 crores will be constructed under the Special Plan Assistance.

The district sports complex will consists of a main stadium, an indoor stadium, hostel and an alternative field fit for playing hockey, kabaddi, kho-kho etc.

Speaking as chief guest at the foundation stone laying function, Chief Minister O Ibobi noted that Manipuri players excel in national championships and have great potential to compete in international games.

To promote sports movement in hill districts, the Government is working hard to build district sports complexes at all the hill district headquarters on priority basis.

In addition to Senapati, necessary approval has been granted to build a similar sports complex under SPA in Chandel district too, stated Ibobi.

Moreover, the Government is planning to build district sports complexes in Ukhrul, Tamenglong and Churachandpur districts under NLCPR in the next phase.

In addition to sports, other agenda on the priority list of the Government includes rapid development of education and transport infrastructure and health care facilities in hill districts, informed the Chief Minister.

To develop Thangal village as a tourist spot which is closely related with the history of Manipur, a sum of Rs 1.50 crores has been earmarked.

Under this development programme of Thangal village, a community hall of traditional architectural design, a recreation park and other facilities will be constructed, elaborated Ibobi adding that construction work will begin soon.

Another community hall will also be constructed at Ningthoupham, he assured.

Addressing the gathering as guests of honour, Works Minister K Ranjit exuded confidence that the upcoming district sports complex will be able to give a vital impetus to sports movement in Senapati district.

He also sought cooperation of the public so that construction of the sports complex can be completed within the stipulated time with strict control on quality.

In his presidential speech, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister N Biren assured that more infrastructure will be developed not only in hill district headquarters but also in interior areas.

At present, a football ground is being developed at Purul in Senapati district at the cost of Rs 60 lakhs, said Biren.

The Government has also considered construction of a separate and exclusive arena for indigenous games.

The Siroy Lily hosted at Ukhrul has already been upgraded to the status of a national level tournament.

Once the construction of the district sports complex at Senapati is completed, a training centre of SAI will be opened at Senapati, informed the YAS Minister.

The foundation laying ceremony was also attended by Chairman of Hill Area Committee Thangminlen Kipgen, MLAs M Thorii, K Raina, Haokholet Kipgen, DC Senapati and other district level officers.

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