On February 8, 2025, the Directorate General Assam Rifles – Men and Women Polo Championship 2025, concluded at the historic Mapal Kangjeibung Polo Ground in Imphal. The tournament that commenced on 20 January brought together 27 Men’s Polo Teams and 05 Women’s Polo Teams from across the Manipur State, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of Polo in Manipur.
The Polo Championship was organized by the Assam Rifles in collaboration with the All Manipur Polo Association (AMPA). The final matches were played on 08 Feb 25 amidst the presence of a huge gathering of over 4000 Polo enthusiasts, who came together to celebrate the sport deeply rooted in Manipur’s heritage. The event was graced by the Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh, as the Chief Guest, alongwith Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General of Assam Rifles and Dr. Konsam Saratchandra Singh, President AMPA.
The Closing Ceremony commenced with ‘Rolling of the Ball’ by DG Assam Rifles, which marked the beginning of the Women’s Polo Final Match. The contest was played with Great Spirit and skill, in which Assam Rifles Mahila Polo Team secured the Championship Title against Linthoinganbi Kangjei Lup with a score of 6-4. The Chief Minisrolled the ball for the Men’s final match, an eagerly awaited contest between Manipur Police Sports Club (MPSC) Team B and X Polo Club. After an electrifying display of horsemanship and teamwork, Manipur Police Sports Club (MPSC) Team B emerged victorious with a score of 7-6.
Adding to the grandeur of the event, was a cultural program that showcased the rich heritage of Manipur. The audience were further treated to a spectacular Tent Pegging demonstration, followed by a special song performance by Miss Mandakini Takhallembam, adding to the festive atmosphere. During the Half-time, Pipe Band display by Assam Rifles Pipe Band elevated the spirits of spectators. The same Pipe Band was adjudged the best Band during Republic Day celebrations at the Kangla Fort.
The Chief Minister and DG Assam Rifles were felicitated in recognition for their contributions to sports promotion in the region.
The event culminated with a prize distribution ceremony. The winners of both categories were awarded a trophy along with cash prize of ₹50000/- each, while the runners-up received trophy along with cash award of ₹40,000/- each. Best Discipline Teams along with Best Player and Pony in both the categories were also awarded with ₹10,000/- as cash prizes.
The Polo Championship was a testament of the enduring spirit of sportsmanship, power of unity and sense of camaraderie, thereby demonstrating that sports can transcend divides and foster bonhomie among communities. The tournament was a beacon of hope especially in the backdrop of the turbulence that has affected normal life for over past twenty one months. By providing a platform for young athletes to compete and connect, the tournament has left a lasting impact on the community.
