35th Chakre Chovow Chithuni Football Tournament 2025 kicks off at Okhro-Ikhro

IMPHAL, Jan 15
The much-anticipated 35th Chakre Chovow Chithuni Football Tournament, organized by the Song Song Youth & Students’ Organisation (SSYSO) and sponsored by Striven Football Club, commenced with great fervor at the Okhro-Ikhro Ground, Mao Gate today.
This year’s event holds special significance as it also marks the 25th anniversary of Striven Football Club, said SSYSO in a statement.
The opening ceremony began with the traditional blessing programme followed by flag hoisting and traditional trumpet blowing, and an invocation prayer by Pastor K Akha of Mao Baptist Church Okhro-Ikhro.
The Okhro-Ikhro women folk also captivated the audience with a melodious rendition of the traditional song, setting a celebratory tone for the event.
In his welcome address,  Sani Yisoji, president of SSYSO extended heartfelt greetings to all present. He encouraged the youth to embrace sports as a way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and aim for greater achievements.
The chairman of Song Song Village Authority (SSVA),  Salew Pfokrelo, delivered an inspiring exhortation emphasizing humility and respect. He urged the youth to value their elders’ wisdom and seek their blessings.
Speaking as the chief guest,  Wilson Kayina, OSD (Officer on Special Duty) to the Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs,Govt Of India, shared a motivational speech centered on leadership, unity, and sportsmanship.
Wilson highlighted the importance of sports in fostering discipline and tackling youth addiction.
The opening ceremony concluded with the oath-taking led by  Adahrii Pfoze, the Games and Sports secretary, SSYSO.
The  football tournament will continue until January 18.