SENAPATI, Dec 12: The Second Zeme Olympics 2024 officially began on 12 December 2024, with a grand opening ceremony held at Zenamyi Village in Bendramai. The event, organised by the Zeme Olympic Association, marks the start of a week-long celebration of sports, culture, and community spirit.
The ceremony saw an impressive turnout of 64 contingents from villages and towns across the states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam. Shri N Kayisii, the Honourable Member of the Legislative Assembly for 49 Tadubi AC, President of the NPP, Manipur, led the proceedings as the Chief Host. He emphasised the importance of unity through sports, highlighting the shared heritage of the Zeme community despite the political boundaries separating them across the states.
Special guests at the opening included Smt. Mamoni Doley IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Senapati District, and Shri Hiazu Meru NCS, Deputy Commissioner of Peren District, Nagaland.
In his presidential address, Jeremiah Pame, President of the Zeme Olympic Association and Assistant Professor at Delhi University, spoke about the role of sports in fostering the all-round development of youth, while stressing the importance of education for building a brighter future.
Smt. Mamoni Doley IAS encouraged the youth to maintain sportsmanship and balance their athletic pursuits with academic achievements. She also assured the gathering that she would offer all possible assistance to make the event a grand success. During the ceremony, she officially hoisted the Zeme Olympics flag.
Shri Hiazu Meru NCS of Peren District echoed the sentiments of unity, emphasising how events like the Zeme Olympics bring together people from across the states, reinforcing their brotherhood and shared cultural heritage. He also highlighted the importance of improved road connectivity between the states to promote cultural integration, enhance economic activities, and improve the livelihoods of the community. Shri Meru NCS declared the Zeme Olympics officially open by kicking off the first ball.
The opening ceremony also featured a traditional fire-making competition and a vibrant cultural dance performed by the Bakie Village council. Following the ceremony, the first football matches of the event took place.
The Zeme Olympics, running until 18 December 2024, will feature a variety of sports, including football, volleyball (men’s and women’s), individual events such as high jump, long jump, 100-metre race, and relay races, as well as traditional games like the stilt bamboo race, shot put, and tug of war. The event is set to be a true celebration of sport, culture, and community spirit.
