Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma Launches “Bana Kaih Mizoram: Empowering Mizoram Sports (EMS)”

Aizawl : Pu Lalduhoma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, officially launched the “Empowering Mizoram Sports” (EMS) program under the Mizoram Bana Kaih Scheme 2024 today at 1:00 PM at the Directorate of Economics & Statistics Conference Hall in Aizawl.

During the inauguration, the Chief Minister remarked, “Mizos have a natural passion for sports, but our performance compared to other states has not met its full potential. Winning medals at the National Games is rare, and qualifying in multiple disciplines remains a challenge. We firmly believe this is not due to a lack of talent but rather because we have yet to nurture and showcase our potential fully. Many talented youths in Mizoram lack access to proper training, and this program aims to create those opportunities.”

He continued, “We aspire to achieve better results in national and international competitions, envisioning Mizo athletes winning more medals. The government has already taken steps, and their impact will become more evident over time.”

With India preparing to host the 2036 Olympics and the Indian Olympic Association officially bidding on October 1, 2024, the Chief Minister highlighted a significant opportunity for Mizo athletes. He stated, “Our vision is to groom young talents now to represent India in the 2036 Olympics. To achieve this, the Empowering Mizoram Sports program has been launched with a ₹2.5 crore budget under the Bana Kaih scheme.”

The EMS initiative focuses on establishing sports coaching and talent development programs across Mizoram. Basic coaching will be provided to children aged 8 to 15, preparing them for future competitions, particularly the 2036 Olympics.

Priority will be given to sports with greater Olympic qualification potential. The program will operate under a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model, encouraging community involvement and shared responsibility with the government to ensure sustained interest and commitment.

Initially, the EMS program will be implemented as a pilot project in 2-3 selected districts before expanding statewide.

Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State for Sports & Youth Services, emphasized, “The EMS program aims to identify and nurture talent from even the remotest villages. However, it is not just about providing training. Communities must express a desire for coaching and take responsibility for logistical needs, food, and accommodations. This initiative fosters a genuine sense of ownership and commitment.”

He concluded, “Our ultimate goal is to prepare our athletes for the 2036 Olympics, which India aspires to host. We are determined to see Mizo youth, both men and women, competing at the highest level on the global stage.”

The launching program was chaired by Mr. H. Lalhmingthanga, Director of the Sports & Youth Services Department. Mr. Lalramsanga Sailo, IRS, Secretary to the Government of Mizoram, delivered the Welcome Speech, and Mr. Henry C. Lalrawnkima, Secretary of the Mizoram State Sports Council, presented a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the “Empowering Mizoram Sports” initiative.