Senapati: The 3rd edition of the Lieut Col (L) Robert TA Memorial Open Football Tournament commenced in Senapati, with the Assam Rifles proudly inaugurating the event organized by the Maram Battalion, Jwalamukhi Sector, IGAR (East).
P. Chingpai, the wife of Lt Col (Late) Robert TA, unveiled the trophies during the ceremony, graced by the Inspector General Assam Rifles (East) and Commander of Jwalamukhi Sector Assam Rifles.
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Maj NM Singh, SM, in his introductory speech, highlighted that through sports, the Assam Rifles celebrate not only sportsmanship but also pay tribute to Lt Col Robert TA, the first Army Officer from the Maram Community. Lt Col Robert, born on January 24, 1981, in Senapati, became a trailblazer in the Indian Army, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Raised as the eldest of eight siblings, his early life was a testament to the values of hard work, commitment and service to the community. At the age of 23, Lt Col Robert embarked on a remarkable journey by joining the Indian Army in 2004 through the Technical Entry Scheme (TES) examination. Little did he know that he would go on to make history, becoming the first individual from the Maram tribe to rise to the rank of an officer in the Indian Army.
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Commissioned into the Corps of Engineers, Lt Col Robert exhibited exceptional leadership and commitment to his duties. His prowess was not limited to the military domain as he distinguished himself as versatile and dynamic person. He was a sportsman of unparalleled calibre and participated with remarkable ease in various adventure activities. Notably, football captured his heart, and during his training days, his course-mates affectionately dubbed him “Ronaldo,” a tribute to his skill and prowess on the football field.
In 2008, as a captain, Lt Col Robert showcased his leadership on a different battleground, leading his squad to victory in the prestigious Army Adventure Challenge Cup. This triumph earned him the Vice-Chief of the Army Staff Commendation award, a recognition of his exceptional contributions to his team’s success. Beyond the medals and accolades, Lt Col Robert remained deeply connected to his roots. His journey was not just about personal accomplishments but about breaking barriers and being the trail blazer for others from his community. He exemplified the true spirit of a leader, inspiring those around him to strive for greatness. Promoted to the rank of Lt Col in 2017, Lt Col Robert continued to serve with distinction, accumulating with 16 years of dedicated and chequered service in variety of assignments by 2020. His legacy lives on, not only in the records of the military but also in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
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With the commencement of the Robert TA Memorial Open Football Tournament, Maj NM Singh urged participants to honor Lt Col Robert’s legacy, emphasizing the tournament’s role as a testament to his love for sports.
The tournament, featuring 32 teams, is set to culminate on February 17, 2024, with the final match graced by the Governor of Manipur, adding significance to the event.
P. Chingpai expressed gratitude to the Assam Rifles and Jwalamukhi Sector, IGAR (East), for organizing the tournament in memory of her late husband, stating her family’s indebtedness.
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MLA Losii Dikho, attending the inaugural program, noted the benefits for football lovers in the district, expressing gratitude to the army for organizing such events that engage the youth. He emphasized the potential for positive change through such mega events and urged continued support from the army.
Former Dy. Speaker K. Raina commended the efforts to strengthen the relationship between the army and CSOs, expressing happiness about the event.
Fr. KO Sebastian, Principal of Don Bosco College (Autonomous), Maram, called the tournament a great occasion to gather in memory of Lt Col (L) Robert TA, praising the Assam Rifles for promoting his memory and ideals through such events.
The day concluded with an exhibition match between the AR team and SDOAM.
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