On the occasion of the South Asian Games 2016, the 'Run for North East' was organised with the objective of creating awareness for the upcoming game along with the torch relay.
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Northeast will host the upcoming South Asian Games 2016 in which various SAARC countries will participate with the spirit of sportsmanship.
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In New Delhi, the torch relay was held at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
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The ceremony started with the handing over of the Torch by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president N. Ramachandran to the Sports Minister Sarabananda Sonowal, who is also the Chairman of the Organizing Committee.
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"We are very confident the SAARC games will be successful. It is being held in India after 5 years. IOA is very happy as it is happening in India's Northeast region and IOA will be responsible for the technical conduct of the events," said Narayana Ramachandran, President, Indian Olympic Association
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In Guwahati, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the torch relay and the run began from Sonaram High School field and finished at Nehru Stadium
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More than 5,000 people, including Games volunteers, took part in the event which was followed by cultural function.
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"I am thankful to people of Assam and people of Meghalaya because they have extended their full cooperation to organize 12th South Asia Games. I wish all the players coming from different parts of the SAARC nations take part in this international spirit with sportsmanship," said Sonowal
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Guwahati and Shillong will jointly host the South Asian Games from February 6 to 16 in which all the SAARC countries will participate.
In Shillong, Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma flagged off the marathon from the Fire Brigade ground.
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Olympic medalist Mary Kom, Indian ace boxer Laishram Sarita Devi, Bollywood star Milind Soman were among those who attended the event.
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"It is the first time we are hosting a big competition in Notheast. It is a very good chance for our northeast states because we will get infrastructure facilities, training centers among others. Also, it will be an advantage for the youth sports persons," said Padmashree Kunjabala Devi, Coach, Weight lifting.
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In Tripura, hundreds of sports enthusiasts, players, coaches and members of various sports and youth organizations took part in the Torch Relay organized by the Sports and Youth Affairs department.
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"I am very happy to receive the torch and it will surely encourage the new sportsman and players of the state. Now my aim is to take part in the Olympics and bring laurels for my country," said Dipa Karmarar, Gymnast.
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The South Asian Games is a biennial multinational multi-sport event held amongst the athletes from South Asia.
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In the 12th edition of the South Asian Games this year, more than 3500 athletes and sports officials from eight members SAARC countries will participate.