KOHIMA, JUL 14 (NPN): The three-day State-level Pre-Subroto Tournament for Under-17 girls commenced on Monday with an opening ceremony at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Speaking as the special guest, additional secretary, Department of Youth Resources & Sports (DYRS), Anthony Ngullie, highlighted that the Prime Minister had recognised the department’s grassroots initiatives, which were featured in the “Mann Ki Baat” programme. He lauded the department’s dedication in nurturing sportspersons across Nagaland.
Delivering a brief note, joint director DYRS, Jakedovo Chase, recalled the legacy of the Subroto Cup, instituted in 1960 under the aegis of the Indian Air Force in honour of Air Marshal Subroto Mukherjee, India’s first Chief of Air Staff. He noted that the tournament, renamed the Subroto International Football Tournament in 2001, now attracts schools from abroad. Chase further stated that Nagaland has achieved notable success in the competition over the years, winning titles on several occasions.
This year, Nagaland will compete in two categories—Under-17 boys and Under-17 girls. For the qualifying rounds, 17 districts were divided into four zones, with 32 boys’ teams and 10 girls’ teams participating. The top two teams from each zone advanced to the state-level tournament. Champions in both categories will represent Nagaland at the 65th Subroto Mukherjee International Football Tournament in New Delhi from August 18 to September 25, 2026.
The programme was chaired by director DYRS, Kethosituo Sekhose. Senior State Sports Coach, Khriehutuo Tsira, delivered the welcome address, while Neila Thaprü presented a special number. YRSO, Naroenla administered the oath to participants and associate pastor PCRC, Vikhoto Zao, pronounced the invocation.
State-level Pre-Subroto tourney for U-17 Girls kicks off in Kohima
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