Manipur: Khelo India Football Tournament begins with grand ceremony in Kangpokpi

The Khelo India Football Tournament 2025 kicked off today at South Changoubung with an energetic opening ceremony, showcasing the government’s continued push to strengthen grassroots sports and promote young talent across the country.

Organised by the 112 BN CRPF in collaboration with the South Changoubung Youth Club (SCYC) and supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the five-day tournament will feature 16 teams competing in a high-voltage knockout format from November 17 to 21.

Rajesh Kumar, DIG, Kangpokpi Range, CRPF, attended the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest. He was accompanied by senior CRPF officials including RK Baruah, Commandant, 112 BN; Mukesh Taterway, 2IC; Deepak Kumar, 2IC; and TS Baite, AC, 113 BN. Members of the South Changoubung Village Authority, Women Wing, and SCYC were also present, underlining strong community involvement.

Following local tradition, dignitaries were felicitated with traditional shawls. After inspecting the players of the opening match, the DIG officially declared the tournament open by kicking the first ball, drawing loud cheers from spectators.

A total of 15 matches—including eight Pre-Quarter Finals, four Quarter Finals, two Semi-Finals, and the Grand Finale—will be played under a straight knockout system.

The champion team will take home a trophy, ₹25,000 in prize money, medals, and certificates, while the runners-up will receive a trophy, ₹15,000, medals, and certificates. Special individual awards will be revealed during the closing ceremony on November 21, which will also feature cultural performances.

Addressing the gathering, DIG Rajesh Kumar said the Khelo India initiative aims to revive India’s sporting culture, develop grassroots talent, and promote national integration through sports. He praised the efforts of the 112 BN CRPF and SCYC for bringing a meaningful sporting platform to Kangpokpi, adding that sports remain a powerful instrument for unity, discipline, and peace.

With the launch of the tournament, young footballers from remote corners of Manipur are set to showcase their abilities and aspire for larger platforms, proving that opportunity continues to unlock talent across the region.