An international-standard basketball court was inaugurated at Lower Forest Colony in Kohima on June 17, providing the neighbourhood with upgraded sporting infrastructure and a new platform for youth development and community activities. The facility was officially opened by S Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, in the presence of MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhiitso and Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Supongnukshi Ao, IFS.
The court and basic amenities were constructed by Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhiitso under the Iconic Project 2024–25 and funded through the Local Area Development Programme (LADP). Addressing the gathering, Advisor Keoshu praised Dr Rhiitso’s investment in sports infrastructure, saying it would help make the youth productive and turn them into community assets. He urged aspiring athletes to stay consistent and dedicated, and highlighted sport’s role in building discipline, teamwork, leadership and healthy lifestyles. Keoshu added that he hoped the new court would become a local hub for youth development and community unity.
In his remarks, Dr Rhiitso thanked the Forest Department for permitting use of the site and said the court would promote physical fitness and encourage youth to consider professional pathways in sport. He asked the Department of Youth Resources and Sports to formally adopt the facility to support its future development.
Supongnukshi Ao noted that the Forest Department approved the request in good faith with specific conditions and modalities, and stressed the need to protect the site from misuse. “Sanctity of the place must be maintained,” he said, urging the community to keep the facility free from illegal activities, alcohol and substance abuse.
Former Forest Colony Youth Organization president Thipuzo Azo Kezo recounted the project’s history: conceived in 2015–16, it first materialised in 2022 with support from former MLA Dr Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire and was upgraded in 2025 after approaching Dr Rhiitso. The upgrade delivered an international-standard court plus a retaining wall, gallery, rostrum, drainage, fencing and toilet facilities. The programme was chaired by FCYO women coordinator Riikuno Nienu; Forest Colony Council chairman Peter K Rengma gave the welcome address, and FCYO president Enok Awomi proposed the vote of thanks.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/kohimas-forest-colony-gets-new-basketball-court
Category: Sports
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Publish Date: 2026-06-18 00:45:00
