SORENG: The Closing Ceremony of the Winter Coaching Camp 2026, organised by the Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Soreng District, under the theme “Nurturing Young Talents and Building Champions for Tomorrow,” was held on February 2 at Jautar Indoor Gymnasium Hall, Soreng. The Winter Coaching Camp was conducted from 6 January to 31 January 2026 in the disciplines of Boxing, Badminton, Football, and Karate.
The programme commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, MLA Soreng–Chakung, Mr Aditya Tamang (Golay) along with the Special Guest, (Member, Sports Development Board), Mr Sanju Pradhan and other distinguished guests. The Guests were accorded traditional khadas, followed by the presentation of a token of appreciation to the Chief Guest.
The programme continued with the rendition of the Khelo India Anthem by all trainees, followed by experience-sharing sessions by the trainees, who reflected on the skills acquired and expressed gratitude for the opportunities and benefits gained through the coaching camp.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Mr Aditya Tamang (Golay), commended the efforts of the department, coaches, and trainees, congratulated them on their achievements, and extended his New Year wishes. He conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to the Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, along with the entire Department, for organising the initiative, describing it as an important programme, vis-a-vis larger events that are often observed with grandeur where international players are invited to perform.
He observed that while such events generate public interest as a form of entertainment, equal emphasis must be placed on the long-term development of sports as a vision. He stressed that this vision can only be realised when the Sports Department, the Government, and committed sports stakeholders collectively provide opportunities and platforms for aspiring sportspersons to train, participate, and emerge as future role models. In this regard, he also emphasised the need for proper and systematic planning by the Department. Drawing reference to major sporting events, he noted that limiting participation solely to international players often hinders the growth of local and emerging talent. He also congratulated Mr Sanju Pradhan on his appointment as a Member of the Sports Development Board.
Highlighting the initiative of the Chief Minister, he stated that the Government has constituted several Developmental and Welfare Boards across various districts under legislative provisions to support departments in functioning effectively and efficiently. He informed that these Boards comprises experienced and capable personnel from relevant domains. He further underscored the responsibility of the Board to formulate a foolproof plan for the Government, aimed at improving youth participation in sports across village areas through collaborative discussion, structured suggestions, and a clear roadmap in coordination with the Department.
Referring to the coaching camps that have been conducted consistently over the years, he raised concerns regarding the need to improve their outcomes by analysing data from previous years to enhance their effectiveness. He emphasised that the continuation of such initiatives should be based on measurable outcomes that generate tangible benefits. Accordingly, he urged that greater focus be placed on outcome-based assessment, identifying areas for improvement, and introducing value additions to make the programmes more robust and impactful. He expressed hope that the Board would perform commendably by offering constructive suggestions and advice to the Government and the public.
Mr Golay extended his best wishes to the student participants, while also acknowledging the support extended by the Department and the parents. He highlighted the role of sports in instilling discipline and promoting physical well-being among the youth. He encouraged participants to actively practice and apply the learnings gained from the coaching camp.
He further expressed hope that the district ground would eventually be developed into a well-equipped stadium catering not only to football but also to multiple sports disciplines. He informed that he has consulted the Department regarding the repair of the badminton court and that funds for the same would be allocated in the upcoming State Budget Session. Additionally, he spoke about identifying additional space in the surrounding areas to accommodate remaining sports activities and develop a comprehensive sports hub for the district.
Recalling the past culture of students residing in hostels to avail sports training opportunities, he advocated for reviving this practice through a collaborative effort between the Department and the public to encourage and motivate students to participate actively. Concluding his address, he once again appreciated the dedication of the Department, coaches, and trainees.
He further expressed hope for the establishment of a comprehensive training camp in the future, encompassing all sports disciplines under a single platform, supported by a foolproof plan developed in collaboration with all four constituencies. He noted that such an initiative would be encouraged by the Chief Minister and suggested that relevant stakeholders convene a meeting to take the proposal forward. He reiterated that a solid plan with a clear blueprint should be prepared for execution, adding that the responsibility of funding could be entrusted to him.
Earlier a welcome address and briefing on the Winter Sports Coaching Camp was delivered by the Deputy Director (S&YA), Soreng, Mrs Mamita Gurung, who outlined the objectives, outcomes, and overall impact of the camp.
As a mark of appreciation, letters of appreciation were presented to the coaches of Boxing, Badminton, Football, and Karate. Gifts were also presented to two promising trainees from each discipline by the Chief Guest. Certificates were distributed to all trainees in recognition of their participation and successful completion of the coaching camp.
The participants were handed certificate of participation, Thereby followed by the official declaration of the closing of the Winter Sports Coaching Camp 2026 by member of (Sports Development Board) Mr Sanju Pradhan.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Coordinator Mr Chundup G Tamang.
The programme was smoothly conducted by the Master of Ceremony, Mr Silash Rana.
Also present at the event were BDO Soreng, Mr Paru Hang Subba, Senior Welfare Officer, Mrs Prativa Tamang, (BAS) President Mr Amber Gurung along with the guardians of the participants, coaches, and staff of the Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Soreng and other line departments officials.
- IPR Report
