Sikkim to Host National Sports Festival in 2015

Gangtok, July 18, 2014: Sikkim is set to host a week-long National Sports Festival in 2015, announced Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs, Law & Parliamentary Affairs, R. B. Subba. He urged the administration, Panchayats, students, civil societies, and NGOs to actively cooperate to ensure the success of the historic event.

Subba made the announcement during a workshop on "Mandate and Modalities for Youth Engagement and Sports Promotion" and an awareness program on rural sports under RGKA/PYKKA & NSS, organized by the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs at Chintan Bhawan.

Highlighting the state’s focus on skill development for youth, Subba referenced the National Youth Policy 2014, which defines individuals aged 15 to 29 as youth, noting that 40% of Sikkim's population falls into this category.

Encouraging students to pursue studies in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, Subba emphasized the importance of meeting the state's increasing demand for skilled human resources. He also highlighted opportunities in nursing, GNM, and laboratory technology, especially with the multi-specialty hospital under construction at Sichey.

Subba informed the attendees that 152 students from Sikkim were sent for training in fields like engineering and architecture, though 248 seats remained vacant due to insufficient applicants. Additionally, he noted that around 8,000 youths from the North-Eastern states would receive skill development training at ITFT Chandigarh, sponsored by the government, with opportunities for Sikkimese youth to participate.

The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan (RGKA) scheme was also discussed, with Subba explaining that Rs. 1.6 crore would be allocated to each block in the country to develop indoor and outdoor sports activities.

Principal Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs, Dr. K. Jayakumar, IAS, emphasized the need for a comprehensive youth development model to guide young people toward productive engagement in society. He called for collaboration between educational institutions and Panchayats to ensure sustainable development and empower youth both physically and mentally.

The workshop featured interactive sessions, distribution of cash incentives to sports achievers, and cultural performances. The event began with traditional khada offerings, a ceremonial lamp lighting, and a welcome address by Special Secretary Nima L. Yethanpa.

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