A Hero’s Legacy Lives On: 21st Capt Jintu Gogoi Memorial Football Trophy Unveiled in Assam's Digboi

The Indian Army on Wednesday ceremonially unveiled the trophy of the 21st Captain Jintu Gogoi, Vir Chakra Memorial Football Tournament at Digboi in Assam's Tinsukia district.

The unveiling was carried out by the Red Shield Gunners under the aegis of Spear Corps.

The annual tournament, regarded as one of Upper Assam’s prominent youth football events, is organised in memory of Captain Jintu Gogoi, Vir Chakra, to honour his courage, sacrifice and lasting legacy.

The 21st edition of the tournament will be held from February 4 to February 14, 2026, across three venues—Digboi, Tingrai and Duliajan—aiming to provide wider participation opportunities for young footballers from the region.

A poignant moment marked the ceremony as the parents of Capt Jintu Gogoi—Hony Flying Officer Thogiram Gogoi (Retd) and Mrs Duluprabha Gogoi—joined the event virtually and unveiled the official teaser video of the tournament. Their presence added emotional depth to the occasion and highlighted the enduring bond between the Indian Army and the people of Assam.

Senior Army officials, representatives of the local administration, media personnel, team captains and members of the local community were present in large numbers at the event.

Instituted to promote sportsmanship, discipline and youth engagement through football, the Capt Jintu Gogoi, Vir Chakra Memorial Football Tournament has grown steadily over the past two decades into a major platform for emerging football talent from across Assam.

Captain Jintu Gogoi, a commissioned officer of the 17 Garhwal Rifles and a native of Assam, laid down his life during the Kargil War in 1999 while displaying exceptional leadership and bravery. He was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra for his gallantry. His sacrifice continues to inspire generations, particularly the youth of Assam.

The upcoming edition of the tournament once again underlines the Indian Army’s commitment to youth development and community engagement through sports, while keeping alive the legacy of a national hero.

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