Khumulwng, Feb 14: Advocating for a sports-driven development model, Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma on Friday said true recognition for the state comes from athletes and artistes rather than political figures.
He said legends such as Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli in cricket, and football icons like Bhaichung Bhutia and Sunil Chhetri, have enhanced India’s global image. “Tripura must aim to produce such names,” he said.
Highlighting local pride, he pointed to the achievements of Dipa Karmakar and Somdev Devvarman, adding that the state’s youth only need infrastructure and encouragement.
He observed that while space had earlier been allotted to Sourav Ganguly, the time had come to invest in homegrown talent. The proposed academy, he said, would serve as a platform for aspiring cricketers from ADC and other regions.
He emphasised that sports can deter youth from substance abuse and foster discipline and unity, even joking that the sporting spirit can sometimes achieve what diplomacy cannot.
The statements were made at the foundation ceremony of the Maharaja Kirit Bikram Manikya Cricket Academy at Khumulwng.
The academy is planned with residential hostels, academic arrangements, modern gym facilities, floodlights for night practice and specialised coaching staff including physiotherapists.
CEM Purna Chandra Jamatia, cricketer Manisankar Murasingh, along with EMs, MDCs and TTAADC officials, were present at the event.
