The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and other sports bodies, organised a series of sporting activities in different parts of Imphal under the Sports for Peace and Development Across Nations (SPANDAN) initiative, promoting fitness, discipline, youth participation and community harmony.
At Malom, A/69 Battalion CRPF, in association with SAI, organised a Mini Marathon in which 224 of the 439 registered participants took part. The event was attended by A/69 Battalion Second-in-Command Pramod Choudhary, while retired Deputy Secretary Arambam Naba Singh was the chief guest.
Md Rahish Khan won the race in 33:27 and received Rs. 10,000 and a certificate. Kamsing Jaipui finished second in 34:46, securing Rs. 6,000, while Md Wajir took third place in 35:16 and received Rs. 4,000. Fifty-four-year-old Louremban Jiten Singh was recognised as the oldest participant.
Meanwhile, 109 Battalion CRPF, Mongsangei organised a 10-km cycle race under the theme “Run for Peace, Run for Fitness, Run for a Healthy Society.” The race, organised with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Khelo India and SAI, started from Kangla’s western gate, proceeded along Tiddim Road and returned to the starting point, with around 100 cyclists participating.
Padma Shri Awardee Oinam Bembem Devi attended the event and highlighted the role of sports in promoting peace, fitness and a healthy society. She also appreciated the CRPF’s efforts to expand sports participation in Manipur. Athokpam Bickey, Angom Yaiphaba and Th. Gyananda secured the first three positions respectively.
At Maklang, 120 Battalion CRPF, in collaboration with SAI, also launched a Men’s Open Football Tournament on September 11. MLA of Lomsong Kendra Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh inaugurated the tournament in the presence of 120 Battalion Commandant Rajeev Lochan, CRPF personnel, SAI representatives, coaches, officials, participating teams and local sports enthusiasts.
Twelve teams are participating in the football tournament, divided into two pools of six. The tournament will feature 12 matches, culminating in the semi-finals and final on September 14. The winner will receive Rs. 10,000 and the Winner’s Cup, while the runner-up and third-place teams will receive Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 4,000 respectively. Medals and certificates will also be awarded, along with a Best Player award.
The organisers said the SPANDAN activities are aimed at providing young people with opportunities to showcase their sporting talent while fostering discipline, teamwork, friendship and healthy competition. They also stressed the potential of sports to bring communities together and promote peace and social harmony in the State.
