Raksha-Rajneeti Network
Kohima, Nagaland : As part of its ongoing efforts to promote sports and fitness among the local population, the Indian Army, under Operation Sadbhavana, inaugurated the 1st edition of Major Laishram Jyotin Singh, Ashok Chakra (Posthumous) Football Tournament on 12 March 2025 at Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School in Bishnupur District of Manipur in honour of the hero also having the distinction the first and only officer from the state of Manipur to have been conferred with the country’s highest gallantry award during peacetime.
Born on 14 May 1972 in Nambol, Major Laishram Jyotin Singh was an alumnus of RIMS, Imphal, and was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps on 15 February 2003. On 26 February 2010, while on deputation with the Indian Medical Team at the Indian High Commission in Kabul, Afghanistan, he displayed unparalleled courage by single-handedly confronting a heavily armed terrorist and thwarted a suicide attack on the premises of Indian High Commission. Forcing the terrorist to detonate his suicide vest, Major Singh made the supreme sacrifice while saving six others. For his extraordinary bravery, Major Laishram Jyotin Singh was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra on 26 January 2011.
The tournament commenced with an exciting inaugural match between Southern Sporting Club (Singjamei, Imphal) and ASUFI (Mao), where Southern Sporting Club emerged as the winner with a maiden goal against ASUFI (Mao). The match witnessed enthusiastic participation and a spirited display of sportsmanship. The event was attended by representatives of the District Football Association, family members of Late Major Laishram Jyotin Singh, Ashok Chakra (P), and senior Army officials.
With eight teams from across Manipur competing in a league format, the tournament aims to foster team spirit, sportsmanship, and fitness among the youth while strengthening the bonds of unity in Bishnupur district and Manipur.
Through this initiative, the Indian Army continues to inspire the next generation by honoring the legacy of a true hero and reinforcing its commitment to the people of Manipur.
