Imphal, Aug 30 (IANS): The Manipur government has given 337 acres of land for the central government to set up India's first national sports university in the northeastern state, an official said here on Sunday.

"The Manipur government handed over 337 acres of land to the union ministry of youth affairs and sports for setting up of the national sports university at Yaithibi Khunou in Thoubal district," N. Ashok Kumar, secretary to Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his maiden visit to Manipur in November last year announced to set up the sports university in the state, rich in diverse sports talents.

"Sports was the fulcrum of tremendous economic activity and several allied disciplines such as nutrition and physiotherapy could boost employment prospects for the youth of Manipur. The state has a big contribution in making India proud in world sports," Modi said.

Union minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jitendra Singh said the work on the national sports university would begin soon at Yaithibi Khunou, 30 km southeast of capital Imphal.

"This sports university would not only be unique in India, but also a tribute to the consistent and glorious contribution made by Manipuri youth in Olympics and other international arena," Jitendra Singh said.