Senapati, September 22: The 4th Edition of the Lt Col Robert TA Memorial Badminton Tournament, 2025, organised by the Indian Army under the aegis of the Red Shield Division, concluded today at the Rikhumai Indoor Badminton Hall, Senapati. The tournament, held from September 17 to 22, saw overwhelming participation with 349 players across 31 categories, cutting across age groups.
Now an annual event, the tournament is held in memory of Lieut. Col. (Late) Robert TA, the first soldier from the Maram community to join the Indian Army as an officer through the Technical Entry Scheme in 2004. Commissioned into the 3rd Engineer Regiment, he laid down his life while leading a snow clearance team during an avalanche in North Sikkim on May 14, 2020.
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The closing day witnessed some of the best badminton action in thrilling final matches. Chingpai Rangnamei, wife of the Braveheart, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, while senior Indian Army officers felicitated the winners and runners-up. Glimpses of Lt Col Robert TA’s life were also showcased in slides during the ceremony.
More than just a sporting event, the tournament has touched a chord with the local community since its inception four years ago. The goodwill and appreciation from the people were palpable, as was the enthusiasm of budding shuttlers who found a platform to showcase their talent. The initiative also reinforced the message that encouragement of sports is itself a tribute to the sacrifice of Lt Col Robert TA, while highlighting the Indian Army’s deep connect with the people.
Addressing the gathering, R.S. Abel, founding member of the Senapati District Badminton Association (SDBA), recalled that the association was formed in 2001 with a few members to promote physical fitness. Membership grew year after year, and he described badminton as a game that can be played by all ages. He invited people to join the association, noting that life membership requires a contribution of Rs. 2,500, while temporary membership costs Rs. 500 and can be renewed annually.
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He added that the current tournament has introduced the participation of school and college students and urged principals to send more students for future editions, which will continue to be held every year. He also invited district players to take part in the upcoming All Naga Districts Badminton Championship, 2025, which Senapati will host in the last week of October.
Rang Peter, Deputy Commissioner of Kamjong district, also addressed the gathering. He expressed happiness at seeing so many badminton enthusiasts and said the quality of play in the men’s singles and doubles finals showed that district players could reach national and international levels in the future. With good facilities now available in the district, the DC encouraged the public to use them, stay healthy, and nurture talent. He expressed optimism that more renowned players would emerge from the district.
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Altogether, 231 matches were played across 31 categories, including high school under-15 and college under-17 levels. In the Men’s Open Singles, Pfoki Liruna clinched the championship while Kalo Truman finished runner-up. In the Men’s Open Doubles, Liidu Wungmayo lifted the title, while Pfokrehrii and Buhbu took the runners-up position.
(Newmai News Network)