Assam Rifles felicitated Manipur football stars Elangbam Panthoi Chanu and Naorem Priyangka Devi after India’s SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 victory. The ceremony in Imphal recognized their contribution to the national team’s sixth title win and highlighted the growing role of Northeast women athletes in Indian football.
Quick Glance
- Assam Rifles honoured Manipur footballers Panthoi Chanu and Priyangka Devi for India’s SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 triumph, an official X post read.
- India defeated Bangladesh 3-1 in the final at Margao, Goa, to secure its sixth SAFF women’s title.
- Panthoi Chanu received the Best Goalkeeper award for her outstanding tournament performance.
- The felicitation highlighted Assam Rifles’ sports promotion initiatives under Operation Sadbhavana in Manipur and the Northeast.
Agartala/Imphal: The Assam Rifles recently honoured two talented footballers from Manipur for their remarkable contribution to Indian football. The force organized a special felicitation programme in Imphal to celebrate the achievements of international goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu and midfielder Naorem Priyangka Devi.
The ceremony focused on the success of the Indian Women’s National Football Team at the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026. The victory created a new milestone for Indian women’s football and brought pride to the Northeast region.
The Assam Rifles recognized the players for their dedication, discipline, and exceptional performances on the international stage. The event also highlighted the importance of sports in encouraging youth development and building confidence among young athletes.
India Secures Sixth SAFF Women’s Championship Title
India delivered a memorable performance in the final match against Bangladesh. The Blue Tigresses defeated Bangladesh 3-1 in the final held at Margao on June 6, 2026.
The victory helped India secure its sixth SAFF Women’s Championship title. It also ended a seven-year wait for the regional championship trophy.
The tournament success reflected the strength and progress of women’s football in India. Players from the Northeast, especially Manipur, played an important role in strengthening the national team.
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 |
| Final Result | India defeated Bangladesh 3-1 |
| Venue | Margao, Goa |
| India’s Title Count | Sixth SAFF Women’s Championship victory |
Panthoi Chanu Earns Best Goalkeeper Honour
Goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu received special appreciation during the felicitation programme. She won the Best Goalkeeper award for her impressive performances throughout the championship.
Her sharp reflexes, important saves, and consistency helped India maintain a strong defensive structure during the tournament.
Panthoi’s achievement has added another proud chapter to Manipur’s football legacy. The state has produced several football talents who have represented India at national and international levels.
Priyangka Devi’s Midfield Excellence Recognized
Midfielder Naorem Priyangka Devi also received praise for her contribution to India’s championship campaign.
Her ability to control the midfield, create attacking opportunities, and maintain team balance made her an important part of the squad.
Both Panthoi and Priyangka come from Manipur, a region widely known as a powerhouse of Indian football. Their success has motivated young players across the Northeast to pursue football professionally.
Assam Rifles Promotes Sports Development in Northeast
The felicitation was organized by Assam Rifles under the Spear Corps. Officials praised the two athletes not only for their sporting achievements but also for becoming role models for young girls.
The force highlighted how women athletes from the Northeast continue to break barriers and create new opportunities in Indian sports.
The programme also reflected the broader objectives of Operation Sadbhavana. Through this initiative, Assam Rifles supports community development, youth engagement, and sports activities in the region.
Over the years, the force has encouraged football through different programmes. These include women’s football competitions, memorial tournaments, and community-level matches.
Such activities aim to promote teamwork, unity, and positive engagement among young people.
Northeast Women Football Talent Gains National Recognition
The felicitation came during wider celebrations across the Northeast after India’s SAFF victory.
Other states in the region also celebrated their football contributors. Meghalaya honoured players including Sanfida Nongrum, who received the tournament MVP recognition, and Ribansi Jamu.
The achievements of Northeast footballers have strengthened the region’s identity as a major centre for producing talented players.
Manipur, in particular, continues to play a significant role in India’s football journey. The state has produced several athletes who have represented the country with distinction.
Sports as a Tool for Youth Inspiration
During the event, Assam Rifles representatives said that recognising successful athletes encourages young people to follow their sporting ambitions.
They emphasized that dedication, discipline, and determination are essential qualities for success.
The felicitation also strengthened the relationship between security forces and local communities. It showcased how sports can connect people and inspire positive change.
India’s Women Football Growth Continues
India’s SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 success has received appreciation from football supporters, organizations, and sports communities across the country.
The performances of Panthoi Chanu, Priyangka Devi, and their teammates represent the growing influence of Northeast athletes on the national sporting platform.
As women’s football continues to expand in India, initiatives supporting young talent will remain important. Programmes like the Assam Rifles felicitation send a message of empowerment, unity, and national pride through sports.