Gogoi today said that despite heavy challenges, internationally acclaimed boxer M C Mary Kom has carved out a niche for herself in the boxing arena through "sheer grit, tenacity and steely determination".
"Her great achievement in the London Olympics needs to be emulated by the youngsters," Gogoi said at the formal release of Eclectic North East and felicitation of internationally acclaimed boxer Mary Kom here today.
North East is a storehouse of talents and states like Manipur and Assam despite being plagued by insurgency and other problems have made a mark in different fields, including sports, he said.
Gogoi said that sports not only inculcate discipline, self-confidence, competitiveness and healthy sportsman spirit, it also can help to contain insurgency by creating a congenial atmosphere.
"Sports is a great unifying force and can play a pivotal role in resolving insurgency and ethnic clashes by bringing about unity and amity among different communities," he said.
Internationally acclaimed boxer M C Mary Kom, who was felicitated by Eclectic Northeast, said that hard work, will power and perseverance are the keys to success in life.
More From This Section
"We can reach our goals in life...It is in our hands. Why can't we do it? We have to prepare to face the challenges come what may," she said.
The renowned boxer from Manipur said that she aspired for the gold medal but had to remain content with the bronze.
Mary Kom expressed her gratitude to the Government of India, Governments of Manipur and Assam for the love and affection showered on her.