KANGPOKPI: The 94 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) concluded its Under-18 Football Tournament under the Khelo India initiative, “Sports for Peace and Development,” at Damdei Christian College in Kangpokpi, Manipur, on Thursday.
The tournament, held from October 26 to 29 at Damdei, saw the participation of 16 teams comprising 256 male players. The event was organised to promote sports among young people and encourage values of discipline, teamwork and fair play.
The closing ceremony was attended by Ashok Kumar Singh, Commandant of 94 Battalion CRPF, as Chief Guest. Paotinsei Kipgen, MCS, SDO/SDM of Saitu, and MD Hefajuddin, MCS, SDO/SDM of Kangchup Geljang, attended as Guests of Honour.
Other attendees included Deputy Commandant Ravi Shankar, Assistant Commandants S.B. Toppo, Jashbir Singh, Prashanta Jena and Hanuman Singh Meena, along with Medical Officer Sreerag Krishna of 94 Battalion CRPF, local representatives and supporters of the participating teams.
As part of the tournament, jerseys, shorts and football boots were provided to all participating players.
Following a series of matches, Zalengam FC emerged as the champions, receiving a cash prize of Rs 30,000. Motbung Accessories (MAS) secured second place and received Rs 20,000, while KUKI RISING FC finished third with a prize of Rs 10,000.
Individual awards carrying a cash prize of Rs 3,000 each were presented to players for their performances. Paboithang Sitlhou was named Best Player of the Tournament, Haogoulun Chongloi received the Best Goalkeeper award, Thangminlun Vaiphei was recognised as Best Defender, Jona received the Best Midfielder award, and Lalboimang Kipgen was named Top Scorer.
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Referees and linesmen were also honoured for their contributions to the conduct of the tournament.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Commandant Ashok Kumar Singh congratulated the winning teams and highlighted the role of sports in personality development. He said participation in sports helps develop discipline, teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship, while also contributing to physical fitness and mental well-being.
The tournament was organised with the objective of promoting peace, unity, social harmony and physical fitness among young people, while strengthening ties between the CRPF and the local community.
Participants also took an oath to contribute towards a drug-free India and uphold the values of discipline, integrity and fair play in sports and everyday life.
The 94 Battalion CRPF stated that the initiative was part of its efforts to encourage youth to adopt healthy lifestyles, stay away from drugs and other harmful substances, and promote friendship and mutual understanding through sporting activities.
