Guwahati, Feb 15: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the 18th edition of Captain Jintu Gogoi, Vir Chakra Memorial Football Tournament at the Nehru Maidan, Duliajan in upper Assam Dibrugarh on Wednesday.
The tournament has been organised every year by the Indian Army every year in the honour and memory of the brave son of Assam, who made supreme sacrifice for the country in the Batalik Sector during Operation Vijay in 1999.
For the first time in the history of the tournament, teams from all the states of the North-east will participate in the football tournament, celebrating the essence of the region.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The brave son of Assam, Captain Jintu Gogoi is a source of inspiration for all of us. He made supreme sacrifice for our country for freedom, honour and respect. As we gather here today to celebrate the brave-heart, we must try and imbibe what the sport – football – in this case, teach us. The bond of brotherhood, team-building, playing for honour & respect, team before the player and so many others are being exemplified through these games of sport. As we join hands to build a new India, under the dynamic leadership of PM Narendra Modi, I believe the youth of today can source courage, determination and inspiration from the sacrifice of Capt Jintu Gogoi to contribute and build a better tomorrow and stronger country.”
Sonowal graced the inaugural occasion as the Chief Guest. Lt Gen RP Kalita, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command also attended the event.
Some of the major highlights of the tournament also include combat free fall, small team insertion & extrication, fly past by helicopters, Kalaripayattu, Mallakhamba, Bhangra, Khukri dance along with performance by a cultural troupe including a singer of national repute.