The Nagaland Athletics Association (NAA), in close collaboration with the esteemed Athletics Federation of India (AFI), has launched a significant initiative to bolster the expertise of sports officials across the nation. The District Technical Official (DTO) Course commenced on May 12th and will continue until May 14th at the Pilgrim Higher Secondary in Dimapur. This comprehensive program has attracted 82 enthusiastic participants, all eager to refine their skills in officiating athletics competitions throughout India.
In an official press communique issued through its media cell, the NAA highlighted the DTO course as a cornerstone grassroots endeavour by the AFI. This crucial program provides essential certification and thorough training for previously untrained individuals, ensuring the maintenance of elevated standards in sports officiating. Notably, this marks the third occasion that the AFI has conducted such a vital technical course within Nagaland, underscoring a sustained commitment to professional growth and development within the region’s athletic community.
The inauguration of this important event was graced by the presence of Abu Metha, the esteemed Vice President of AFI and President of NAA. In his address, Metha passionately emphasized the indispensable role that proficient technical officials play in the continued advancement and integrity of athletics. He conveyed sincere gratitude to the AFI for their unwavering support and proudly acknowledged that certified officials hailing from Nagaland are now increasingly presented with valuable opportunities to officiate at both regional and national level competitions. Looking ahead, Metha provided assurances that similar enriching courses would be organized in the future, actively encouraging all participants to maintain their engagement and steadfast commitment to the field.
Guiding the participants through this enriching learning experience as the principal resource person is the highly accomplished Shambhudas Bandopadhyay. A World Athletics Silver Level Referee, an AFI Technical Delegate, and a valued member of the Technical Committee, Bandopadhyay brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the course. In his address to the attendees, Bandopadhyay expressed his sincere appreciation to both the AFI and the NAA for their collaborative efforts in hosting this significant program.
The inaugural session of the DTO course was expertly chaired by Neingulie Nakhro, the dedicated Treasurer of the NAA. The proceedings commenced with a reverent invocation led by Akito, the esteemed Chaplain of Pilgrim Higher Secondary, setting a positive and focused tone for the days ahead.
The District Technical Official (DTO) Course, a collaborative effort between the Nagaland Athletics Association and the Athletics Federation of India, represents a crucial step towards strengthening the foundation of athletics officiating in the region and beyond. The enthusiastic participation of 82 individuals in Dimapur underscores the commitment to elevating standards and ensuring the integrity of athletic competitions. With the guidance of experienced professionals like Shambhudas Bandopadhyay and the support of leaders like Abu Metha, this initiative promises to empower a new cohort of certified technical officials from Nagaland, who will contribute significantly to the fair and efficient conduct of sporting events at various levels. The assurance of future similar courses further solidifies the dedication to continuous development within the athletics fraternity.