The All Garo Hills JAC (AGHJAC) today met Sports Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh to seek the setting up of a sports academy in the Garo Hills region for the benefit of sportspersons from the area.
The AGHJAC, which comprises various NGOs from the region, along with social activists, has been on tour to various places, including the national capital of New Delhi, to highlight various issues being faced by the region and seeking a resolution to urgent matters.
In a memo to the minister, the AGHJAC highlighted the rich tradition of sporting activity in the region and felt that for the betterment of people in sporting activities, an academy would be the best way forward.
“Sports has been an integral part of the lifestyle of the people of Garo Hills. Traditional games like Sue Goa, Gando Makkalpala, Wapong Si’ka, Ja’kol Kala, An’dingsala, Durubol Mawea, Gostapgrika, Kilkokde’susaa, Wa’ambongsota etc; are still played on many occasions. If these sports could be approached professionally, it may help the state achieve sporting glory,” felt the AGHJAC.
They further felt that there was a need for institutional support and technology to produce and promote champions.
“Infrastructure is required to facilitate sportspersons from the diverse socio-economic background of the region for them to achieve and excel in sporting activities. The emphasis has to be on training, coaching, and infrastructure for the future of sportspersons,” they added.
The AGHJAC entreated the minister to set up an academy in Garo Hills with at least hostel facilities, 30 beds to accommodate sportspersons, a track and field stadium, coaches of certain disciplines, gymnasium, office rooms, staff quarters, training halls, etc to help develop the future of sportspersons from the Garo Hills region.
