Arunachal Governor applauds IAF's youth engagement efforts at Inter-ALG football tournament finale

The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. General K.T. Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd.), graced the grand finale of the maiden Inter Advance Landing Ground (ALG) Football Tournament as the Chief Guest at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium, Yupia. The spirited event marked a new chapter in youth engagement and sportsmanship, with the ALG Pasighat team clinching the championship title by defeating ALG Aalo 4-2.

Applauding the Indian Air Force (IAF) for initiating the tournament, the Governor emphasized that the event was not merely a sporting competition but a purposeful platform for connecting with the youth living in areas surrounding the ALGs across Arunachal Pradesh. He stated that such initiatives play a significant role in promoting discipline, teamwork, and national pride among young minds.

“This tournament is a shining example of nation-building through sport, discipline, and inspiration,” the Governor remarked. “By engaging youth in constructive activities like football, the IAF is cultivating leadership, resilience, and a sense of purpose. It also helps in identifying hidden sporting talent from remote areas.”

Highlighting the broader impact of the event, Governor Parnaik said that sports can be a powerful medium to instill patriotic fervor and may inspire young individuals to consider careers in the Indian Armed Forces. He expressed optimism that similar initiatives would continue to unlock the sports potential of Arunachal’s youth.

The finale was held in the presence of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Surat Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM, and several senior IAF officials. The stadium was filled with excitement as students from various schools cheered for the teams, while a band performance by students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Nirjuli, added a celebratory note to the occasion.

Organized by the Eastern Air Command, the Inter-ALG Football Tournament began on 24th June 2025 and featured participation from eight teams comprising IAF personnel and local players. The participating teams represented the ALGs of Tawang, Ziro, Mechuka, Aalo, Pasighat, Tuting, Walong, and Vijoynagar. The event successfully fostered unity, community spirit, and celebrated the ethos of sportsmanship across the State.

The ALG Pasighat team was awarded the championship trophy and a cash prize, while the ALG Aalo team took home the runners-up trophy. The Governor congratulated both teams for their excellent display of skill, teamwork, and determination.