The 5th edition of the Melityongpang Badminton Tournament concluded today at Marepkong Ward, with active participation from 30 players from the ward itself. The tournament, held from December 18 to 19, featured two categories-Junior and Senior aimed to provide a platform for the shuttlers to improve their skills.
In the 5th edition of the tournament, Longkumer & Imsong emerged as champions in the Senior category and received a cash prize of Rs 6,000, while AM secured the runners-up position and were awarded Rs 4,000. In the Junior category, Shuttlers secured the champion title and received Rs 4,000, while The Shuttlers finished as runners-up and took home Rs 3,000.
Individual honours were also presented during the event. Otongtang T. Longkumer was adjudged Player of the Tournament and received Rs 1,000, while the Most Promising Player award went to Imtiapong, who was also awarded Rs 1,000.
The tournament saw participation from three junior teams and twelve senior teams, with a total of 30 participants from the ward itself. Three league matches were played in the Junior category, while twelve league matches were conducted in the Senior category.
On December 18, the tournament was inaugurated by Rongsenshilu, PRO to MLA Küzholüzo Nienü (Azo Nienü) and earlier resident of Marepkong Ward, who attended as the chief guest.
In his address, during the innagural program, Rongsenshilu appreciated the ward for producing committed government officers, and for its contributions in various sectors. He also acknowledged the ward’s dedication in every field and stated that although Marepkong Ward was established relatively late than others, it has produced several notable personalities and continues to nurture individuals pursuing different fields.
He reminisced about his childhood and youth spent in Marepkong Ward, recalling the years he invested there as memorable. He said he spent his formative years in the ward and expressed a deep emotional attachment to the place and its people, adding that he had learned many valuable life lessons during his time there.
He further noted that the ward has produced individuals serving in government sectors as well as local contributors to society.
Referring to the recent municipal elections and the election of an MMC Councillor for the ward, he urged residents to set aside political affiliations. He cautioned that division within the ward would hinder progress and encouraged the people to remain united and extend support to the councillor for the overall development of the ward.
The tournament concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Sakumongba Longchar, who acknowledged the contributions of the organizing team, players, and the community for the successful conduct of the event. The tournament, made possible through the contributions of ward members, parents, youths, and well-wishers of Marepkong Ward. The organisers stated that the tournament was not organised as a pastime but as a platform to help shuttlers improve their skills and performance.They also expressed optimism that the tournament would continue to expand and motivate more young players in the coming years.