Itanagar – Koloriang MLA and PHED Minister’s Advisor, Pani Taram, officially inaugurated the much-anticipated first-ever state-level Volleyball Championship 2024 at the Sports Resort in Itanagar.
Marking a significant milestone for sports in the state, the event comes after a 12-year gap and has been organized by the Arunachal Pradesh Volleyball Association (APVA).
Speaking as the chief guest at the ceremony, MLA Pani Taram lauded the APVA for their efforts in bringing back the championship. He expressed his optimism for the future of volleyball in the state, hoping for increased participation in the coming years. “I am quite happy to be here to grace the occasion, and I am hopeful that next year the number of participating teams will increase and that all district teams will be able to take part,” said Taram. He further emphasized the state’s potential in sports, adding, “Our youth will bring laurels to the state, their families, and their communities.”
The MLA highlighted the state government’s 2024 declaration as the “Year of Youth,” urging everyone to motivate young people toward sports and healthy lifestyles, and away from negative influences like drug abuse.
He pointed out that involvement in sports can offer significant benefits, including a job reservation quota of 5-10% in various departments like the police, which could support families economically and increase societal status.
In response to a memorandum submitted during the event, Taram promised to address the demand for an indoor volleyball stadium in the capital complex and Papum Pare district, ensuring government support for the APVA’s initiatives to promote sports in the region.
Former Minister and Arunachal Olympic Association (AOA) President Taba Tedir, the event’s guest of honor, also praised the APVA for reviving the championship. He assured full backing from both state and central authorities to ensure further development of the sport.
Tedir expressed hope that a national-level volleyball championship, which had faced delays in the past, would finally be organized with help from the Sports Authority of India (SAI), allowing Arunachal athletes to participate on a larger stage.
He also encouraged the youth to balance academic activities with disciplined sports engagement to represent the state and country at the international level.
APVA President Nera Techi reflected on the challenges the organization faced over the past decade, attributing the gap to communication and logistical hurdles. However, with ten districts participating this year, he expressed optimism that next year would see full participation from all districts across the state.
The championship, which started on October 20, will culminate on October 25, with teams from ten districts vying for the top honors.
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