Nagaland's first Deaf Sports Meet kicks off in Chümoukedima

Nagaland's inaugural Deaf Sports Meet began at 1st NAP Stadium in Chümoukedima on Monday as part of the International Week of Deaf People (September 21–27). Jointly organised by the Deaf Community of Nagaland, Nagaland Deaf Sports Association and Deaf Biblical Ministry, the seven-day event features more than 100 participants competing in arm wrestling, athletics, badminton, carrom, table tennis, football, handball, futsal, chess, high jump and volleyball.

State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Tongpang Jamir inaugurated the meet, emphasizing that persons with disabilities have the right to participate in sports and develop talent. He highlighted Nagaland's recent achievements, including Hokato Hotozhe Sema's bronze medal in shot put at the Paris 2024 Paralympics and a silver medal at the North East Blind Tournament in July.

Principal of Deaf Biblical Ministry Christina Walling Zhimomi said the event aims to identify talented Deaf athletes and create pathways to higher-level competition. The meet was organised without institutional sponsorship, relying on contributions from working Deaf persons and well-wishers.