Manipur DGP urges youth to choose sports over anti-social activities

With Manipur reeling under ethnic violence for nearly two years, the state police have launched a youth development programme 'Catch Them Young initiative', promoting sports as a means to restore normalcy.

The northeastern state is currently under President’s rule, granting security forces greater control over law and order.

Manipur Police DGP Rajiv Singh, speaking at the inauguration of the 4th Master Boys and Girls Boxing Championship and the 1st State Level Blue Cubs Baby League at the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex on Thursday, emphasized the power of sports as a unifying force that fosters discipline, health, and resilience.

Encouraging young athletes, he advised them to compete with integrity, passion, and sportsmanship while embracing the core values of perseverance and friendship. He also commended coaches and parents for their unwavering support in guiding young talents towards excellence.

Singh highlighted how the ongoing violence has particularly impacted the youth, urging them to return to the sports field instead of engaging in anti-social activities.

He also lauded Manipur’s rich sporting heritage, which has produced Olympic medallists like Mirabai Chanu and MC Mary Kom. Singh noted the Manipur Police’s continued support for athletes, with over 400 sportspersons in its ranks, including world-class players like Mary Kom, Sarita Laishram, and Mirabai Chanu.