The 19th edition of the Lieutenant Colonel Rajeev Bakhshi Memorial Football Tournament began on 13th January 2025 at the Mini Stadium in Parbung & Pherzawl District in Manipur. The tournament was organized every year by the Assam Rifles to honor the memory of Lieutenant Colonel Rajeev Bakhshi, who made the ultimate sacrifice while fighting insurgents in Manipur in 2006.
The opening ceremony was a grand event, attended by over 500 people, showing the excitement and unity of the local community. That year, sixteen teams from Pherzawl, Churachandpur and Mizoram competed in the tournament, making it a highly anticipated event for the region.
The tournament has been held every year since 2007, aiming to celebrate the bravery of Lieutenant Colonel Rajeev Bakhshi, who was awarded the Sena Medal (Posthumous) for his courage. Through this football tournament, the Assam Rifles sought to bring the community together, especially the youth to promote peace and unity through sports.
The 19th edition of the tournament was not just about football; it was a way to remember a brave soldier and continue his legacy of sacrifice while encouraging sportsmanship and positive connections among people in the region. (PR)