Northeast to host 12th South Asian Games in 2016

Sports fever has gripped the northeast, as the region will host the 12th edition of 'South Asian Games 2016' (OC-SAG).

The players from across the region are to take part in the most awaited sports extravaganza. The organising committee recently launched the logo and mascot of the games here.

Guwahati and Shillong would jointly host the Games from February 6 to 16 next year.

At the launch ceremony, the OC-SAG also kicked-off its Volunteers Programme which is opened to the general public. Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sarbananda Sonowal and Sports Minister of Meghalaya Zenith Sangma graced the occasion.

"It is undoubtedly a great privilege games for the whole northeast particularly for Guwahati, Assam for launching the mascot and logo of the 12th south Asian games. Everybody is looking forward for the games. It is definitely going to be a great mega event for the first time in this part of the country," said Tarun Gogoi, Chief Minister, Assam

The Logo and the Mascot of the Games were selected from around 450 entries each. The logo has eight petals representing the countries participating in the 12th South Asian Games. The name of the Mascot for the Games is TIKHOR, who is the Brand Ambassador of the 12th South Asian Games, 2016.

"I'm very happy to be here because this is the occasion which is inspired all of us particularly all the north-eastern living in the north-eastern part of India. We can be all united and we will be proud that South Asian Games would be hosted in Guwahati and Shillong," said Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports

The international sports event will not only bring the Northeast region to the mainstream but also boost the morale of the local sportspersons.

As large number of sportspersons, officials and spectators are expected to participate, it will give a boost to the region's economy.