In commemoration of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and celebrating the World Environment Day, which falls on 5th June 2022, the much-awaited football exhibition match organized by Kohima Forest Division in collaboration with Kohima Town Club was played between Kohima Town Club XI (KTC) and Kangleipak Pari XI on 4th June 2022 at IG Stadium, Kohima.
In an introductory note, Divisional Forest Officer, Rajkumar M. said that it was a big opportunity for the department to be able to collaborate with Kohima Town Club in sponsoring a Customized Jersey with a Theme "Only One Earth" to create awareness about global warming and send the message in protecting the environment through sports, which was the first of its kind.
Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Dr. Neikiesalle Nicky Kire while speaking as the special guest called upon the players to be more disciplined as sportspersons. Dr. Nicky also said that just practicing for a week or two and ending up after a tournament will not help a player to move forward and therefore urged the players to be more consistent in practicing to represent the state and become someone to lead an exemplary life.
The Advisor also requested the audience to be more responsible and disciplined in cleaning up the mess around them before leaving the stadium.
The exhibition match started with an early goal against the visiting team by Nyithong Magh (6) of KTC XI, but after a short while, Samboi (17), the Captain of Kangleipak Pari XI and also a player of East Bengal FC made an equalizer. Without much delay, Bipin (19), also a Mumbai FC player scored another goal making the tally 2-1. Ringham Jigdung (10) of KTC XI coming as a substitute in the second half shot an equalizing goal and made 2-2. Both the team struggled and tried to score but KP XI were able to make it in the last minute through their Captain, Samboi making the score 3-2 as the winner.
The program was blessed by Associate Pastor, Khedi Baptist Kehou, Kezhakietuo Belho and the comperes of the event were Kenido Peseyie and Medolenuo Ambrocia. Tree saplings were distributed to the audience and the players after the match.
(V. Khekiye, IA Kohima)
