Arunachal Pradesh to send 329 contingent to North East Olympics Game

A CORRESPONDENT

ITANAGAR: Education minister of Arunachal Pradesh Taba Tedir informed that altogether 329 athletes from 17 disciplines including coaches will be participating in the 2nd North East Olympics Game to be held at Shillong from November 10.

Tedir, who is also the president of the Arunachal Olympic Association (AOA) while speaking to the reporters, said that the government is of the firm belief that the athletes from the state will win the highest medals in the game.

He said that every single sports association has been directed to sponsor the requirements of the athletes which will be reimbursed later. However, the state government has provided logistic support for the entire athletes.

"Respective sports association heads have organized training as well as the selection process. Those athletes who excelled are now being sent to participate in the Games," he said, adding that he along with the sports & youth minister Mama Natung will grace the opening ceremony of the games at Shillong.

Earlier, Tedir while unveiling the Arunachal Pradesh team jersey also flagged off the team who left for Shillong at ISBT, Lekhi Village near here.

Addressing the athletes, Tedir appealed to them to make the state proud by winning medals and not to involve in any such activity which will derail the image of the state.

"You are representing the state and not an individual, which should be very clear among the athletes. Respect the coach and maintain discipline during the week-long games," he said.

Meanwhile, AOA General Secretary Bamang Tago said that the association is ensuring training and coaching procedure so that medals are brought to the state in the 17 disciplines. Moreover, the association has also ensured that the selected athlete is disciplined and regular in the training.

He said, except swimming competitions, the athletes are participating in the rest of the games. He also said that the athletes winning in the NE Olympics will be also among others to participate in Asian as well as in other international games in days to come.

Responding to the allegation leveled by one athlete Rupa Bayor over the irrational selection of athletes in the game, Tago while refuting the allegation said that the association doesn't see any such action against her.

Tago even said that he personally approached Rupa to maintain and follow the norms of the training and coaching camp.

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