Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh on Friday handed over the Manipur Olympian Park, built in honour of the 19 Olympians the state has produced since 1984 and to encourage aspiring players, to the people of the state.

Located in the Sangaithel area under Imphal West district, the first-of-its-kind park in India was inaugurated virtually by Union home minister Amit Shah on January 5.

While acknowledging the contributions of local clubs in moulding the careers of the 19 Olympians, who brought respect and recognition for the state and country, Singh referred to the Olympians as “Living Legends” who “deserved recognition” for their hard work, dedication and undying love for sports.

Singh later tweeted: “I had the honour to have a grand feast together with the living sports legends of Manipur who have shone at various national and international sports events by giving many victorious and memorable performances. May they continue to shine brighter.”

The park was constructed by Keystone Infra Pvt Ltd under Manipur Police Housing Corporation Ltd.

The Olympians to be honoured are Pangabam Nilakomal Singh, Kshetrimayum Thoiba Singh, Khadangbam Kothajit Singh, Thokchom Anuradha Devi, Kangujam Chinglensana Singh, Pukhrambam Sushila Chanu and Sanglakpam Nilakanta Sharma (hockey).

The others included Soubam Suresh Singh, Ngangom Dingku Singh, Laishram Devendro Singh and Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom (boxing); Lourembam Brojeshori Devi, Khumujam Tombi Devi and Likmabam Sushila Devi (judo); Thingbaijam Sanamacha Chanu, Nameirakpam Kunjarani Devi, Ngangbam Soniya Chanu, Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting) and Laishram Bombayla Devi (archery).