SENAPATI: Assam Rifles will organise the 5th edition of the Lt Col (Late) Robert TA Memorial Open Football Tournament from 05 February 2026 at Senapati, Manipur. The tournament honours Lt Col Robert TA of the Corps of Engineers, who laid down his life in an avalanche in North Sikkim on 14 May 2020 while serving the nation.
He was the first officer from the Maram Naga community to be commissioned into the Corps of Engineers and was known for his passion for sports and adventure.
Conducted under the Assam Rifles Civic Action Programme, the tournament commemorates his legacy and commitment to youth empowerment through sports. Since its inception in February 2022 with 16 teams from Senapati district, the tournament has expanded steadily.
The fourth edition in February 2025 saw participation from 18 teams across Manipur and was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur.The upcoming fifth edition will feature 20 teams competing in a league-cum-knockout format.
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Organised by Assam Rifles in association with the Senapati District Olympic Association, Manipur (SDOAM), the event aims to promote sportsmanship and provide a platform for emerging football talent. Matches will be played at the Senapati Astro Turf Ground, with cash prizes and individual awards for quarter-finalists and above. The winner of the tournament will be awarded an amount of ₹3,50,000.
The tournament underscores Assam Rifles’ continued efforts to engage youth, strengthen civil-military relations and encourage positive pursuits through sports, while paying tribute to a brave son of the soil.