Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday, 23 June declared that the state, home to 36 communities living in harmony, has made an unmatched contribution to Indian sports — and that no Indian contingent at a major international event is truly complete without athletes from Manipur. He was speaking at the International Olympic Day Run organised by the Manipur Olympic Association at the Olympic Bhavan, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal.

A Sporting Legacy Backed by Numbers

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Singh underscored Manipur's outsized role in Indian athletics by pointing to a striking statistic: despite its relatively small population, the state has produced 19 Olympians — a figure that compares favourably with far larger states. He noted that Manipuri athletes have consistently brought laurels to the country across major international competitions, including the Asian Games and the Olympic Games.

In recognition of this contribution, the country's first National Sports University was established in Manipur. Singh informed attendees that the university's infrastructure is nearing completion and that he had recently conducted a personal inspection of the campus.

₹5 Crore for Modern Equipment

Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, who also holds the Youth Affairs and Sports portfolio, flagged a pressing infrastructure gap: much of the existing sports equipment in the state dates back to the 5th National Games held in 1999 and no longer meets current competitive standards. He said the Chief Minister has assured a provision of ₹5 crore in the current financial year for the procurement of modern sports equipment to support athletes.

India's 2036 Olympic Ambitions

Govindas Singh also highlighted that India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympic Games and is actively identifying and nurturing talent across states and disciplines to improve the country's Olympic performance. Manipur, he indicated, is expected to be a key contributor to that pipeline.

Discipline, Diversity, and the Road Ahead

Drawing on his own background as a Taekwondo player, Chief Minister Singh said the greatest lesson sport imparts is not a medal but discipline. He urged young athletes to respect their coaches, maintain communal harmony, and carry the values of determination and perseverance into education and every sphere of life.

As part of the event, Singh flagged off the Olympic Day Run and joined a tree plantation drive alongside other dignitaries. Several MLAs, heads of sports organisations, senior officials, and athletes were present at the programme.