Chief guest, Major General Manish Kumar wishing the players before the start of the first match. (DIPR Photo)
Dimapur, July 1 (MExN): The Assam Rifles Sentinels North East Football Tournament 2024 commenced with at ARTC&S Dimapur. The opening ceremony was graced by Major General Manish Kumar, who served as the chief guest for the event.
The ceremony began with a vibrant display as teams representing various northeastern states marched in, setting the tone for the event. This was followed by an oath-taking ceremony, a captivating military band display, and traditional dances performed by local artists, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of northeast India.
In his address to the gathering, Major General Kumar emphasized the significant role of sports in promoting unity and discipline among both civilians and troops. “Sports have the power to bring people together and foster a spirit of unity and discipline. The Sentinels Tournament is a wonderful platform to showcase sports talent and strengthen the bonds between the armed forces and the civilian population,” he said.
The tournament’s first match saw an impressive performance by DGAR (Assam Rifles), who scored five goals against the Patkai Warriors from Arunachal Pradesh. The audience cheered as DGAR displayed excellent teamwork and skill on the field.
Over the coming weeks, the tournament will feature numerous matches, culminating in the final, which will be held in Shillong. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the event highlight its importance in the region.
Major General Kumar said, “Events like these not only highlight the sporting prowess of our participants but also serve as a bridge, enhancing the relationship between the armed forces and the communities they serve.”
