Arunachal: East Siang clinches first ever HDMT Boys’ Football title in nail biting final

The 8th edition of the Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy (HDMT) 2025 for U-16 boys and girls concluded with high-octane drama and sporting excellence as the East Siang district lifted the prestigious boys’ football trophy for the first time. In a thrilling final clash at the Pasighat Outdoor Stadium on Monday, East Siang edged out Leparada 4-3 in a match that kept the packed stadium on the edge of their seats.

The closing ceremony was graced by several high-ranking dignitaries, including Arunachal Pradesh Minister for Law, Justice, Social Justice & Empowerment, Tribal Affairs, and Sports & Youth Affairs, Shri Kento Jini, who served as the Chief Guest. Retired Major General Pankaj Saxena (VSM) attended as Guest of Honour, while 39th Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng was the Special Guest. Also present were local MLA Tapi Darang, MLA Ninong Ering, Director of Sports Tadar Appa, East Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu, SP Pankaj Lamba, PMC Chief Councilor Smti Okiam Moyong Borang, and other senior officials.

The final match proved to be a display of youthful skill and resilience. East Siang’s Panam Tasung opened the scoring early in the 6th minute, followed by Karsing Yirang’s brilliant second goal at the 15-minute mark. An own goal by Leparada in the 20th minute further widened the lead. However, Teri Kamdak gave Leparada hope with a powerful header in the 35th minute.

In the second half, Leparada’s Tori Basar converted a penalty in the 47th minute. East Siang’s Geni Tayeng added a fourth goal in the 70th minute with a clinical finish. Leparada tried to stage a late comeback with a long-range strike in injury time (70+1 minute), but East Siang held firm to secure a 4-3 win.

Spectators described the game as one of the most entertaining finals in recent memory, with fans from both districts cheering passionately from the stands.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Minister Kento Jini emphasized the government's commitment to grassroots sports development under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu. “This government is prioritizing youth development and fitness through sports. The days of choosing academics over athletics are over—we must now give equal importance to both,” he remarked. Jini also announced plans for new initiatives and expanded sporting opportunities across the state.

Addressing infrastructure concerns, the Minister confirmed he had received a U/O note from local MLA Tapi Darang regarding the pending development of a synthetic athletic track at the stadium. He assured that funds had been recommended for sanction and that broader improvements to Pasighat’s stadiums were under consideration.

Guest of Honour Maj. Gen. Pankaj Saxena (Retd.) paid tribute to the late Hangpan Dada, the war hero and namesake of the tournament. “Hangpan Dada embodied discipline and physical excellence. Let his bravery inspire our youth to pursue fitness and service to the nation,” he stated.

Earlier, local MLA Tapi Darang stressed the tournament’s role in fostering unity, discipline, and respect. He submitted a formal memorandum seeking stadium upgrades under the Khelo India Scheme.

Kenmin Riba of Leparada was named Best Player in the U-16 Boys’ category, while Natali Yamdo of East Siang was declared Best Player in the Girls’ category.

The week-long sporting event celebrated not only competition but also camaraderie, growth, and homage to a national hero. The HDMT-2025 concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impact on participants and spectators alike.