Tuesday, May 13, 2025 09:45 [IST]
Last Update: Monday, May 12, 2025 16:40 [IST]
GANGTOK, : A veterans’ futsal tournament,
organised by Lal Bazaar Youth Development Committee (LYDC) to commemorate 50
years of Statehood, kicked off today at GMC Futsal Arena in Deorali.
The tournament was inaugurated
by area MLA-cum-minister Arun Upreti, along with deputy mayor Tshering Pladen
Bhutia, LYDC chief patron Lakpa Moktan, Sikkim State AIDS Control Society
project director Dr. Diki Wangmo Phempu and Sadar SHO Niraj Adhikari.
The tournament features 16
local teams, namely, Deorali Ironic Sporting Club, SEWAA FC, Black Eagle (SAP),
27 Gangtok FC, Hill Stone, JVC Singtam, Traffic Police, USSCA FC, Risers FC,
Real Friends FC, Mayal FC, Denzong Boys, Legend FC and UCV FC. The finale is
scheduled for May 17.
Minister Arun Upreti, along
with other dignitaries, also unveiled the tournament trophy during the opening
ceremony.
Addressing the media, Upreti
stated, “LYDC has been engaged in numerous social activities since its
inception. This year, they have organised a futsal tournament to foster sports
among veterans and youths alike. Our government under the leadership of Chief
Minister P.S. Tamang has been promoting various sporting and allied activities
in the state to engage youth positively and steer them away from social evils
like drugs and alcohol. The initiative by LYDC is truly commendable and we are
here to offer all possible support.”
LYDC president K.G. Namgyal
shared that the committee, established in 2017, has primarily been involved in
social activities. “This is the first time we are organising a sporting event
focusing on health and fitness. As people age, opportunities for physical
activity become limited. Through this tournament, we aim to encourage veterans
to remain physically and mentally fit.”
A free three-day health camp is
also being held at the futsal arena for players and spectators as part of the
event.
The inaugural ceremony featured
cultural performances by local artists and a live performance by the band
‘Kutumba’ from Nepal.
The tournament winner will
receive a cash prize of Rs. 50,000, while the runner-up
will take home Rs.
30,000. Additionally, gift hampers
will be awarded during each match.
In the opening matches, SEWAA
FC defeated Deorali Ironic Sporting Club, while 27 Gangtok FC triumphed over
Black Eagle (SAP).
