Itanagar, Feb 13 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, has officially inaugurated the second edition of the Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship at the picturesque Tawangchu River. This thrilling event has attracted over 100 participants from various regions of India and other countries, showcasing the charm of high-altitude sports.

While addressing the athletes, officials, and attendees on Thursday, Khandu, who serves as the Chief Patron of the championship, emphasized the significant natural resources of Arunachal Pradesh. He pointed out that the state is endowed with majestic rivers that are perfect for kayaking and canoeing.

Khandu referenced a proposal by the Arunachal Kayaking and Canoeing Association (AKCA) to transform five river basins into training centers. He confirmed that this memorandum has been forwarded to the Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The Chief Minister assured that the state government, in partnership with technical specialists and the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA), is committed to establishing more training centers throughout Arunachal Pradesh to effectively promote the sport.

Kayaking and canoeing are relatively new sports in the region, with the AKCA being established just last year, followed by the formation of the Tawang district association this year.

Highlighting the evolution of Arunachal Pradesh's sports scene over the last decade, CM Khandu noted the state's impressive performance in national sports competitions.

“Once, Arunachal Pradesh was among the lowest in national sports achievements. Now, according to the rankings of the 38th National Games, we stand second in the Northeast, right after Manipur,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the state would further enhance its position in the forthcoming 39th National Games in Meghalaya, attributing this progress to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and ongoing investments from both Central and state governments in youth development, sports policies, and modern infrastructure.

“In just the last decade, Arunachal Pradesh has secured over 1,000 medals at national and international arenas,” he stated.

The Chief Minister remarked that the state has made substantial strides in individual sports like taekwondo, boxing, weightlifting, judo, and wushu, mentioning that an athlete from Arunachal Pradesh currently holds the top rank in Asia for wushu.

He congratulated kayaking athlete Devi Dada for clinching a bronze medal in the Kayak Cross event at the 38th National Games, describing her as a source of inspiration for budding athletes in the region.

Stressing on the geographical benefits of Arunachal Pradesh, CM Khandu noted that the state's vast and varied natural scenery make it ideal for adventure sports.

He highlighted the success of the Mechukha Adventure Festival, which features numerous adventure events every year, attracting athletes from across the nation and beyond.

Additionally, he mentioned that various adventure and sporting events, including international cycling competitions, are simultaneously being organized throughout the state.

CM Khandu announced that the state government has officially begun funding the Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship, declaring it an annual event on the calendar of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports.

He stated that such international sporting events would significantly enhance tourism and economic activities, benefiting local communities and establishing Tawang as a premier destination for adventure sports.

In conclusion, the Chief Minister congratulated all participants, expressing confidence that the championship will continue to grow in prominence and motivate a new generation of athletes from Arunachal Pradesh.