Kangpokpi's NAKSAM Marks Golden Jubilee, Honours Pioneers and Calls for Greater Youth Empowerment

The Northern Area Kuki Sports Association Manipur (NAKSAM) of Sadar Hills Kangpokpi District celebrated its Golden Jubilee on Tuesday with great fervour at South Changoubung Village in Kangpokpi District, marking 50 years of dedication to sports, youth empowerment, and community unity in the hill areas of Manipur.

Founded in 1976 under the motto “Ever More and Better Ever,” NAKSAM has played a vital role in nurturing sporting talent and promoting discipline, education, teamwork, and cultural pride among youth across the northern hill regions of the district. Over the decades, the association has emerged as a major grassroots sports body organising tournaments, annual sports meets, cultural events and youth engagement activities.

The Golden Jubilee programme began with a solemn condolence ceremony led by NAKSAM President Paokai Chongloi, where the gathering paid tribute to departed leaders and pioneers of the association. As a mark of respect, the gathering observed a minute of silence, followed by the traditional blowing of the Pengkul, a customary trumpet symbolising honour and remembrance.

Speakers noted that the sacrifices and dedication of the early leaders laid the strong foundation upon which NAKSAM stands today.

The celebration featured an elaborate programme attended by community leaders, church representatives, sports enthusiasts, and dignitaries. The event was hosted by Jangminthang and Nengpichong as Masters of Ceremony, while the invocation was offered by Shongkhothang Lotjem, Pastor of the S. Changoubung Baptist Church.

Delivering the welcome address, Paokai Chongloi reflected on NAKSAM’s journey over five decades and called for renewed commitment to develop sports infrastructure and encourage youth participation.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Golden Jubilee Monolith by Haokholet Kipgen, MLA of the Saitu Assembly Constituency, Government of Manipur. The monolith was later dedicated through a prayer by Rev. Dr. Henkholun Doungel, Dean of Post Graduate Studies at Trulock Theological Seminary.

Beating of a traditional gong called Dahpi fifty times marked the momentous celebration.

The Golden Jubilee souvenir was officially released by MLA Haokholet Kipgen, who also addressed the gathering, acknowledging the association’s significant contribution in promoting sports among hill youth.

Senior leaders including Chonkam Kipgen, and Lenkhomang Chongloi, both Advisor of the association and Thangsei Vaiphei, General Secretary of the association delivered speeches recounting the evolution of the association and urging the younger generation to carry forward the spirit of unity and excellence.

To honour their service, sacrifice, and dedication, executives of NAKSAM who served from 1976 to 2026 were presented with mementos and Golden Jubilee souvenirs. The awards were handed over by the invited dignitaries and members of the advisory board of the association, recognising the individuals who shaped the organisation’s growth over the past five decades.

The celebration was further enriched with vibrant traditional dance performances by youth clubs from different villages, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Kuki community.

The cultural dance included “Salulap Lam” from Tapho Kuki Youth Club, “Lut Thel-Thel Lam” from S. Changoubung Youth Club, “Vakol Lam” from
Lungphou Youth Club and “Suhta Lam” from J. Songtun Youth Club.

A special musical number by Neijavah Kipgen added to the celebratory atmosphere.

The programme concluded with a benediction delivered by Kamkhohao Kipgen, Executive of the Kangpokpi Gambih, Kuki Christian Church.

Community leaders emphasised that the Golden Jubilee marks not only a celebration of NAKSAM’s achievements but also a renewed commitment to strengthening sports development, youth leadership, and unity among the hill communities of Manipur.

As the association steps into its next chapter, NAKSAM leaders expressed confidence that the organisation will continue to serve as a pillar of sporting excellence and community solidarity for generations to come.