Chandel, Sep 21: Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the United Volleyball Lovers Group, organised the first two-day Women’s Volleyball Tournament at Pine Turf, Hnatham, in Chandel district of Manipur from September 18 to 19, promoting women’s participation in sports and providing a platform for local talent.

The tournament witnessed participation from 14 teams, along with 30 civilians and 25 Assam Rifles personnel, creating an environment of sporting competition, community interaction and camaraderie.
The event was aimed at encouraging young women to take up sports and providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills in a competitive setting. Volleyball enthusiasts from different parts of the area participated with enthusiasm, adding to the sporting spirit of the tournament.
Team Ankhel Chayang emerged victorious after defeating Team Julbang in the final. The winning side displayed determination and teamwork throughout the tournament to claim the championship.
The tournament also provided an opportunity for Assam Rifles personnel and local residents to interact through sport. The participation of civilians alongside security personnel helped strengthen community engagement and foster a sense of unity.
Organisers said the event highlighted the potential of women athletes in the region and the importance of providing them with accessible platforms to compete, develop confidence and pursue sporting ambitions.
Women’s participation in sports can contribute to physical fitness, confidence, discipline and leadership while also creating opportunities for young athletes to pursue competition at higher levels. Community-level tournaments can play an important role in identifying emerging talent and encouraging greater participation.
The involvement of 14 teams also reflected the growing interest in volleyball among women in the area. Such events can help build a stronger grassroots sporting culture by giving players regular opportunities to compete and improve their skills.
The Assam Rifles has undertaken various sports and youth-oriented initiatives in the Northeast as part of its broader community engagement activities. Sporting events provide a platform for young people to connect, compete and develop teamwork while strengthening interaction with local communities.
The successful conduct of the two-day tournament at Pine Turf brought together athletes, community members and Assam Rifles personnel in a shared sporting environment.
With Team Ankhel Chayang lifting the title after its victory over Team Julbang, the tournament concluded on a positive note, celebrating women’s sporting talent, teamwork and community participation in Chandel.