Mangan, September 21 (IPR): The District-Level School Games 2026 for Under-17 Boys and Girls, organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Sikkim, was successfully conducted today at the Mangan Public Ground, witnessing enthusiastic participation from school students representing various educational institutions across Mangan District.
The event was organised with the objective of promoting the holistic development of students through active participation in sports and games, while fostering physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, leadership qualities and essential life skills. The School Games programme also seeks to provide students with opportunities to compete at the Block, District, State and National levels, identify and nurture sporting talent across various disciplines and create a healthy and competitive environment among participating schools. By encouraging active engagement in sports and physical education, the programme further aims to support student development and contribute towards reducing school dropout rates.
The programme was graced by Zilla Adhyaksha, Mangan, Mr Kado Lepcha, Panchayat President of Ringhim-Nampatam Mr Sherab Bhutia, Panchayat Vice President of Lower Singhik Ms Asukmit Lepcha, Panchayat Member Ms Moti Tamang and Panchayat Member Mr Laku Tshering Lepcha. Additional Director, Sports and Youth Affairs, Ms Janim Lepcha, Deputy Director Mr Pintso Bhutia, Assistant Director Ms Radika Basnet, Physical Education Teachers, teachers from participating schools, officials and staff of the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, and local residents were also present.
A total of 217 athletes from 21 schools participated in the district-level competitions, demonstrating their sporting abilities and competitive spirit across a wide range of events.
The competitions featured a diverse range of athletic and sporting disciplines, including 100 metres, 400 metres, 800 metres, 1500 metres, Shot Put, Long Jump, 4×100 metres Relay, Taekwondo, Archery, Kho-Kho, Kabaddi and Table Tennis. The events provided participating students with a platform to demonstrate their skills, perseverance and commitment to sporting excellence while strengthening team spirit and mutual respect.
Medals and certificates were awarded to the winners and participants in recognition of their outstanding performances and enthusiastic participation. A total of 134 students were selected across different schools and sporting disciplines to represent the district at the State-Level School Games, scheduled to be held in the capital next month.
The successful conduct of the District-Level School Games 2026 marks an important step towards strengthening sports development at the grassroots level and providing young athletes with meaningful opportunities to advance their sporting careers. Through structured sporting programmes, the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs continues to encourage student participation, promote healthy lifestyles and nurture the next generation of sporting talent in Sikkim.
- Report from DIO Mangan