ASMITA league to be organised across Sikkim on March 8

NAWDEEP SHARMA

GANGTOK,: A press conference was held in Gangtok to announce the organisation of the ASMITA League in Sikkim as part of the celebrations for International Women’s Day on March 8.

Addressing the media here on Friday, Mangal Jakhar, Deputy Director of MY Bharat Sikkim, informed that the programme is being jointly organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Sikkim, MY Bharat, and the Sports Authority of India under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

He stated that the ASMITA League, previously known as the Khelo India Women’s League, has been restructured to further promote women’s participation in sports across the country. The initiative will be organised at around 250 locations nationwide, with special focus on aspirational districts to encourage sports and fitness among women.

Under the programme, athletic events including 100m, 200m, and 400m races will be conducted in three age categories: Under-13, 13–18 years, and 18 years and above. The competitions aim to encourage participation from schoolgirls, adolescents, and women interested in sports and fitness.

Jakhar informed that ASMITA stands for “Achieving Sports Milestones by Inspiring Women Through Action.” Along with athletics competitions, activities such as fitness exercises, wrestling demonstrations, and yoga sessions will also be organised to promote a healthy lifestyle.

In Sikkim, the event will be conducted across all six districts, while the State-level mega event will be held at Pelling Senior Secondary School Ground in Gyalshing district. Around 300 women athletes are expected to participate in the programme.

Winners securing first, second, and third positions will be awarded certificates by the Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.