11th Major Bob Khathing Football kicks off at Ukhrul; HPFA dominate Semka FC 7-0
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, February 20 2025: The 11th edition of Major Bob Khathing Football Tournament kicked off on Thursday at District Headquarters ground, Wino Bazar, Ukhrul with 8 teams competing for the title.

In the opening match, defending champions Hunphun Phungcham Football Association (HPFA) stunned Semka FC 7-0 .

Rungshing Muinao scored the first goal for HPFA 2 minutes into the match before adding four more to dominate Semka FC.

In the subsequent minutes, his teammates, Worchuipei and Nimreiyo scored one goal each to further extend the lead over Semka FC .

11th Major Bob Khathing Football kicks off at Ukhrul

Semka FC fought back in the second half, however, Muinao of HPFA netted one more goal in the 45th minute to end the match 7-0 .

HPFA will face Shangshak FC on February 22 .

The football tournament is being organised by the 18 Assam Rifles in collaboration with Ukhrul District Sports Association (UDSA) under the aegis of 10 Sector Assam Rifles Somsai, Ukhrul to commemorate the 113th Birth Anniversary of Late Major Bob Khathing Ralengnao.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Brigadier Sandeep Singh SM, DIG 10 Sectors Somsai, Ukhrul as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, Brigadier Sandeep Singh said Major Bob Khathing Ralengnao was the son of the soil and his contribution to the Nation will be remembered.

Born in 1912 in Ukhrul, Maj Khathing served in different capacities and played a pivotal role in integrating Arunachal by capturing Tawang without any bloodshed.

Recognised with a Padma Shri in 1957 and he later served as India's Ambassador to Burma.

The Brigadier further mentioned that the Bob Khathing Museum of Valour, dedicated to him, at Arunachal Pradesh was inaugurated by Defence Minister on October 31, 2024 .

The Assam Rifles Bob Khathing football tournament has now gained more popularity across the State and is providing a platform to youth to hone their skills, Sandeep said.

As a part of the inaugural event, Padma Shri Guru Reuben Mashangva performed and Awungtang youths displayed a Tangkhul folk dance.

The inaugural function was attended by DC Ukhrul Ashish Das, SDO Dinringam Kamei, president Tangkhul Mayar Ngala Long ( TMNL) Ringphapam Kasar and many sports enthusiasts.

Brigadier Sandeep Singh cut the ribbon and kicked the football and declared the tournament open.