169 Bn CRPF-organised district level football tournament concludes
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 06 2026: The 169 Battalion, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), successfully concluded its District-Level Football Tournament (Open Category Men's) today at Leitanpokpi, Manipur.

The four-day sporting event was organised under the SPANDAN initiative of Khelo India, a flagship programme of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

Inaugurated on November 3, 2026, at the G/169 Bn CRPF grounds, the tournament aimed to foster sportsmanship, physical fitness, discipline, and healthy competition among the region's youth.

169 Bn CRPF-organised district level football tournament concludes

A total of 16 teams from the district clashed in a high-octane knockout format, giving local players a prominent platform to showcase their football skills.

The championship culminated in an intense final match today between PLY, Pukhao Khabam and YSC Leitanpokpi.

After a hard-fought 1-1 deadlock during regular playing time, PLYC's clinical finish in the penalty shootout secured them a 3-1 victory to lift the winner's trophy.

The champions were awarded a cash prize of Rs 30,000, while the first runners-up received Rs 20,000, and the second runners-up walked away with Rs 10,000 .

All three podium finishers were also presented with trophies, medals, and certificates in recognition of their stellar performances.

The final match was graced by legendary weightlifter and former CRPF Commandant, Nameirakpam Kunjarani Devi, Arjuna Awardee, who attended as the chief guest.

Her presence served as a major inspiration for the young athletes to pursue professional sports with dedication and determination, said 169 Bn CRPF in a press release.

Beyond nurturing raw football talent, the tournament successfully strengthened the bond of trust, goodwill, and mutual cooperation between the CRPF and the local populace, it said.

The event concluded amid grand enthusiasm, drawing large crowds of local residents, youth, and sports enthusiasts from Leithanpokpi and adjoining areas, it added.

158 Bn CRPF organises U18 Women Football Tournament

The day also saw the 158 Battalion, CRPF, inaugurating an Under-18 Women's Football Tournament at Haraothel.

Organised under the aegis of the IG M&N Sector and sponsored by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the event runs until November 8 under the theme "Sports for peace and development across the Nation" .

A total of 10 teams are participating in the three-day tournament, which offers local female athletes a platform to showcase their skills and team spirit.

Amit Kumar Saxena, Second-In-Command, 158 Bn CRPF, attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest and encouraged the players to compete with discipline and dedication.

To reward outstanding performances, cash prizes of Rs 30,000, Rs 20,000, and Rs 10,000 will be awarded to the tournament's top three teams respectively.

The initiative highlights the joint commitment of SAI and the 158 Bn CRPF to fostering sportsmanship, physical fitness, and camaraderie among the state's youth, said 158 Bn CRPF in a press release.