Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Sunday, 12 July 2026, praised the state's deep-rooted sporting tradition, saying its athletes have consistently brought distinction to the country through stellar performances at national and international competitions. He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the first Bishnupur District Olympic Games 2026, held at Chengei Lampak in Moirang, Bishnupur district.

A Milestone for Grassroots Sport

The inaugural edition of the Bishnupur District Olympic Games brought together young competitors from across the district to contest in 16 sporting disciplines, organised jointly by the Bishnupur district administration and the Bishnupur District Olympic Association. Governor Bhalla said the event truly embodied the spirit of sport by promoting values of discipline, perseverance, teamwork, respect, and excellence among its participants.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh — who also holds the Youth Affairs and Sports portfolio — attended the ceremony alongside the Governor. Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Bishnupur district, several MLAs, senior officials, and a large number of sports enthusiasts were also present.

What the Governor Said

Addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla underscored the role of district-level competitions in identifying and nurturing future champions. He noted that such platforms give talented young athletes a pathway to progress to state, national, and international competitions, ensuring that no promising sportsperson goes undiscovered.

He pointed out that Thoubal district had pioneered the concept by organising the first district-level Olympic Games in Manipur, and that Bishnupur had successfully carried the initiative forward. He expressed hope that similar events would be rolled out across all districts of the state.

National Programmes and Regional Push

The Governor also highlighted the contribution of several central initiatives to Manipur's sporting ecosystem, citing the Fit India Movement, the Khelo India programme, the National Sports University, and the North Eastern Council's High-Level Sports Task Force as key pillars supporting athletic development in the region. He congratulated athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and organisers for the successful conduct of the event.

Chief Minister's Vision

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said the District Olympic Games would foster healthy competition and serve as a critical platform for identifying emerging talent. He added that the initiative would play a significant role in enabling sportspersons from Manipur to raise their standards and compete at the highest levels in their respective disciplines.

The closing ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances, finals across sporting disciplines, and an impressive band display by a contingent of the Indian Army. The Governor, Chief Minister, and other dignitaries distributed prizes, medals, and mementoes to winners, marking the successful conclusion of the first edition of the games.

With Bishnupur now joining Thoubal in hosting a district-level Olympic Games, the model is expected to be replicated across Manipur's remaining districts in the coming years.