Nagaland government employees and the general public have joined hands to ensure the smooth conduct of “one of the most significant events” in the state’s history — the South Asian Cross-Country Championships and 56th National Cross-Country Championships to be held in Kohima on March 26.

Both sections participated in a government-initiated three-hour mass social work (cleanliness drive) in the capital city from 6am on Wednesday under the supervision of the district administration in view of the twin championships, the biggest-ever sporting events to be held in a state.

A senior official told The Telegraph that the mass social work initiative by the government was an effort to engage everyone, from its staff to the local residents, to be part of this momentous event and also ensure its successful conduct.

“Ours is a small state. We hardly get to host sporting events. Since this is a high-profile international event, we want everybody to be part of this historic event and also ensure its success,” he said.

The significance of the sports could also be gauged from the reaction of Abu Metha, co-convener of the organising committee, who said the twin meets provided them with an opportunity to “write history” together.

“It is an honour for all the people involved in organising the event since it is not only going to be one of Nagaland’s biggest-ever sporting events but also one of the most significant events in the history of Nagaland,” Metha, the associate vice-president of the Athletics Federation of India and the adviser to the Nagaland chief minister said.

In a message to the 200-odd meet volunteers, he urged them not only to assist in the execution of their responsibilities but also be an ambassador for India and Nagaland.

“The event signifies the energy and ambition of the new generation of the Naga youths, to show that the Nagas have arrived at the international stage and aspire to reach a higher standard,” Metha said.

College students from Kohima and outside have been engaged as volunteers since March 19, helping in overall co-ordination — from arrival of guests and athletes from India and abroad to their travel, accommodation and food.

There are over 10 committees looking into various aspects of the game.

Metha added: “Such a big event coming to our own backyard allows our athletes to compete at national and international level in home conditions.

Kohima residents and government staff clean the city on Wednesday ahead of the high-profile sports meet. Telegraph photo

“Apart from promoting brand Nagaland, the event would develop, promote sports and give opportunities to the youths.”

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio is the convener of the championship, which will see the participation of around 850 athletes from India and abroad.

Teams from Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan have confirmed participation along with 667 athletes from 31 Indian states and three sports boards.

The athletes and guests will start arriving from March 24. Rio inspected the preparations on Wednesday.

The mascot. Telegraph photo

Some of the guests included the top brass of the Bank of Baroda, Athletics Federation of India, South Asian Athletic Federation and former champion long-jumper Anju Bobby George.

The mascot of the event is Akimji, a Sumi word meaning a happy and running Hornbill.

Metha, while urging the government to educate people at the grassroots about sports, provide good infrastructure and have a policy of rewarding sportspersons to change the narrative about sports in the state, admitted about the “many challenges” faced in hosting the event of this scale.

Metha was, however, confident that the Nagaland capital will deliver one of the best South Asian athletic events despite infrastructure problem.