DIMAPUR, OCT 26 (NPN): Nisshi FC emerged champions of the 7-a-side Futsal Tournament 2026 organised by the Peren District Congress Committee (PDCC) at The Ball Park, Jalukie Town, Peren, on October 23 and 24.
Organised under the theme “Empowering Youth Through Sports,” the tournament aimed to promote youth empowerment, unity, discipline and sportsmanship while encouraging young people to pursue sports and education.
Nisshi FC lifted the championship trophy and received a cash prize of Rs. 30,000, while Apex FC finished runners-up and took home Rs. 15,000. Lamai Dungki FC and Kenrich FC, the two losing semi-finalists, received Rs. 2,000 each.
Former PCC member and former Independent candidate from the 6-Tening Assembly Constituency, Dr. Tumda Newme, graced the inaugural programme on October 23 as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, he said Peren district was blessed with immense talent but stressed that talent without opportunities often went to waste.
He observed that local youth did not lack skills but needed platforms to showcase their abilities. He further emphasised that the tournament was not merely about football but also about encouraging young people to stay away from drugs and focus on sports and education.
Advisor to the PDCC, Chusi Hieme and PDCC vice-president Kiepeube Zehuny attended the semi-final matches on October 24 as chief patrons.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dimapur District Congress Committee president Kutoho Chishi as the guest of honour, accompanied by officials of the Dimapur District Congress Committee, the Nagaland Pradesh Youth Congress president, the Minority Chairman of Nagaland and other PCC leaders.
Addressing the closing programme, Chishi said the Congress had remained silent in many parts of the region for more than 23 years and called for introspection. He also questioned the development delivered to Peren during the intervening period, stressing that the district’s talented youth required greater recognition and government support.
The organisers expressed gratitude to the leaders and dignitaries for their presence, patronage and guidance, stating that their support had contributed to the successful conduct of the tournament.
The event concluded with a renewed emphasis on providing opportunities for young people to develop their sporting talents while fostering unity, discipline and positive engagement through sports.
