Under-17 National Yogasana Championship Kicks Off in Agartala
Agartala, Jan 3: Chief Minister Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha on Saturday inaugurated the Under-17 Boys’ Yogasana Competition of the 69th National School Games 2025–26 at the Netaji Subhas Regional Coaching Centre (NSRCC) in Agartala, underlining the importance of yogasana in the holistic physical and mental development of children.
Addressing athletes, officials and guests, Dr. Saha said the gathering of young talents from across India was more than a competitive sporting event. He described it as a celebration of India’s cultural heritage, physical discipline and mental resilience. The Chief Minister termed the occasion a proud moment for Tripura and expressed hope that such national-level events would inspire future generations to embrace values of discipline, self-control and excellence.
One Nation, Many Roots, Same Spirit:
Glad to join the inauguration of 69th National School Games- Yogasana (Boys U-17).
The participation of young minds from various corners of the country reflects the true spirit of unity in diversity. pic.twitter.com/UkQowemjPf
— Prof.(Dr.) Manik Saha (@DrManikSaha2) January 3, 2026
The championship is being jointly organised by the Tripura School Sports Board, the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, and the School Games Federation of India (SGFI). Thanking SGFI for entrusting Tripura with hosting the Under-17 boys’ yogasana competition, Dr. Saha said the tournament would remain a significant milestone in the state’s sporting journey. He extended a warm welcome to athletes, coaches and officials from across the country.
Highlighting the broader relevance of yogasana, the Chief Minister said it fosters harmony between the body, mind and soul, enhancing physical fitness as well as mental strength. Referring to yoga’s global recognition, he recalled that International Yoga Day has been observed worldwide on June 21 since 2014, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative at the United Nations, positioning yoga as one of India’s most valuable contributions to the world.
Dr. Saha informed that nearly 350 athletes from 35 states are participating in the competition. Expressing confidence in the young sportspersons, he said many of them would go on to bring laurels to their states and the nation at national and international platforms. He added that Tripura has successfully hosted several national sporting events in recent years, with local athletes registering notable achievements.
Stressing that sports and yogasana are vital for children’s overall development, the Chief Minister said they help instil discipline, perseverance, responsibility and a sense of patriotism. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting yoga, noting that Tripura’s athletes continue to earn recognition across disciplines. He wished the tournament grand success.
Earlier, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, in his welcome address, said hosting a national-level school sports event in Tripura was a matter of pride. He stated that the state government is actively implementing initiatives to enhance sports infrastructure and foster a strong sporting culture, adding that Tripura’s youth possess immense sporting potential.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Sports Department Secretary Dr. P. K. Chakraborty said yoga is an integral part of India’s rich heritage and plays a crucial role in transforming lifestyles. He noted that participation from almost every state reflected the spirit of unity in diversity and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sports development.
Among those present at the inauguration were Sports Director L. Darlong, Joint Director Paimong Mog, Olympian and Padma Shri awardee Dipa Karmakar, and other senior officials and dignitaries.