Ukhrul, October 31: The 7th Edition of the Hill District Sports Meet 2025-26 began on Thursday at the Ukhrul Headquarters Ground, organized by the Hill District Sports Association, Manipur (HIDSAM). The much-anticipated sporting event brought together athletes and officials from across the hill districts of Manipur in a celebration of sportsmanship and unity.
The opening ceremony was graced by Ngamreiwung Luithui, MCS, Sub-Divisional Officer, LM Block, as the Chief Guest.
The programme was compered by Worngachan A. Shatsang, and began with an opening prayer led by Rev. Zaklei Kaping, Pastor of Phungyo Baptist Church, Ukhrul. Following the flag hoisting by the Chief Guest, a welcome address and presentation was delivered by Mr. Lucky Sareo, Vice President of UDSA, and a keynote address by Darison Gangmei, President of HIDSAM. The ceremony also featured a special number presented by Winso Chamroy.
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In his address, Chief Guest Ngamreiwung Luithui highlighted the deeper essence of sports, stating, “Sports are much more than just a competition. They are a powerful force that shapes our character, instills discipline, and teaches us some of life’s most important lessons.”
Encouraging the participants, he added, “Play with integrity, compete with passion, and always respect your opponents. Winning is a fantastic feeling, but what truly matters is the sportsmanship you demonstrate. Win or lose, your participation itself is a victory.”
A minute of silence was observed in memory of the Late Surrender Luikham, former President of HIDSAM.
In the first semi-final, Ukhrul District Sports Association (UDSA) defeated Tamenglong DSA with a commanding 3–0 victory.
The Referees were Vating as the referee, Tammayo Ragui and Poulangai as Assistant Referees and Machuk Kashung as the Fourth Official Goals for UDSA were scored by Khanngam Horam (Jersey No. 11) – 19th minute, Wungshung (Jersey No. 8) – 76th minute, and Rungshing – 78th minute.
In the second semi-final, Chandel DSA outplayed Senapati DSA, winning 3–0.
Referee: Thumli Joysing
Assistant Referees: Shepou L and Ningring
Fourth Official: Vadingthoi
Goals for Chandel were scored by Nicky (Jersey No. 20) – 40th minute, Lalthanchung (Jersey No. 14) – 48th minute, and Winkle (Jersey No. 18) – 67th minute
The football final will be held on October 31 at 1:00 PM, featuring a thrilling clash between Ukhrul and Chandel, with prizes of 2 lakh for the champion and 1 lakh for the runners-up.
The women’s volleyball semi-finals are scheduled for 7:00 AM on October 31, with matches between Ukhrul vs Chandel and Senapati vs Tamenglong
The champion team will receive 60,000 while the runners-up will take home 30,000.
The closing ceremony will be held on October 31, 2025, at 1:00 pm, with Asish Das, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Ukhrul District, as the Chief Guest.
The 7th Edition of the Hill District Sports Meet continues to embody the spirit of camaraderie, discipline, and excellence fostering unity and sportsmanship among Manipur’s hill districts.