Imphal, Aug. 2 -- Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen on Saturday said young athletes are symbols of hope, resilience and national pride, describing sports as a powerful force for nation-building, while felicitating four outstanding sportspersons from conflict-affected Kangpokpi district.

Speaking at a felicitation ceremony organised by the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) Sadar Hills at El-Shaddai in Kangpokpi Town, Kipgen said the achievements of the young athletes offer inspiration to a generation growing up amid the ethnic conflict that has affected the state since May 2023.

Kangpokpi district has remained one of the worst-affected areas in the ongoing crisis, witnessing recurring ethnic tensions, highway blockades and secu...