Namsai, Mar 4: The closing ceremony of the first edition of the Late Chow Inkalit Mannou Memorial Football Tournament 2025 was held at the APIL Ground in Namsai, with Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein attending as the chief guest.
The tournament was organized in memory of Mannou, a respected educator and community leader known for his contributions to education and the preservation of Tai Khamti literature.
A first-batch graduate from Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat, Mannou served as a teacher and later as the principal of Government Higher Secondary School, Tezu.
After his retirement, he played a key role in community affairs as an advisor to the Chongkham Village Council and Tai Khamti Singpho Council. He also contributed to the modification of the new Tai Khamti Tonal Script.
Mein acknowledged Mannou’s contributions to education and cultural preservation, stating that the tournament was a fitting tribute to his legacy. He commended the Mannou family for organizing the event and providing a platform for young players to showcase their talent.
He also announced plans to improve the football stadium, aiming to develop it as a training ground for young footballers from Namsai and neighboring districts.
The final match saw Lekang Sports Club emerge as champions, defeating Tezu Bazaar Football Club 2-0. The winning team was awarded a trophy along with a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, while the runners-up received a trophy and Rs 1 lakh in prize money.
Mein presented trophies to the winners and congratulated all teams, players, and organizers for their efforts in making the tournament a success. He emphasized the importance of promoting sports in Arunachal Pradesh and expressed hope that the tournament would continue in the coming years.
The event was attended by MLA and Advisor Mohesh Chai, MLA and Advisor Chau Zingnu Namchoom, former minister Nokul Chai, retired commissioner Tape Bagra, IGP P N Khrimey, Chairman of the tournament committee Jaleeng Mannou, representatives from the Tai Khamti Singpho Council and Tai Khamti Development Society, senior public leaders, and government officials.
