The 4th Patkai Trophy 2026 Inter‑Institutional Championship opened on October 8 at Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) in Chumoukedima‑Seithekema, bringing students from Nagaland and Assam together for three days of sporting competition.
MLA and Advisor for Civil Administration Works Division Kudecho Khamo, an alumnus of the college, spoke at the inauguration. He said sports give young people a chance to discover their abilities, develop discipline, and build meaningful relationships. Khamo recalled his own student days and urged the students to take their studies, social involvement, spirituality, and sports seriously, and to identify and cultivate their gifts. “Having a talent alone is not enough; you have to capitalize on it,” he added.
He emphasized that people have different strengths—academics, sports, music, leadership, creativity, technology, entrepreneurship—and advised students not to compare themselves with others but to strive to become the best version of themselves. Drawing parallels between sports and life, Khamo said success requires practice, patience, discipline, sacrifice and perseverance, and that setbacks should be viewed as learning opportunities. He called for responsible participation, encouraging students to win with humility and lose with dignity, and warned that competition should never destroy friendship, integrity or sportsmanship.
Principal Dr Thepfuvilie Pieru noted that the championship offers a platform for students from different institutions to showcase their talents and provides a much‑needed break from academic workloads. He said sports teach resilience, humility and teamwork, and that the event is not only about medals but about the effort, respect for opponents and giving one’s best. Pieru welcomed Khamo back to his alma mater after three decades, hoping his presence would inspire participants to aim higher. The program was chaired by Sentijungla M, with opening prayer by Rev. Dr Vichukho Ngukha, a special number presented by Lungbaanlu Khumba, closing prayer by President EU Yoto Chotso, and oath‑taking administered by Games and Sports Secretary Ronathung Odyuo.
