In a move to promote national integration and create a better understanding about people from the north eastern region living in Maharashtra, a football tournament was recently organised in Pune.
Soccer fans made a beeline for the Police Football Ground in Shivaji Nagar in Pune to watch the First North East Community Organization Pune Football Trophy (NECOP) 2014.
A total of 13 teams comprising players from the Northeast participated in the tournament organized by the North East Community Organization, Pune.
"The main purpose of organizing the event was that we want to bring people together. Even though we are from the northeast, but most of us do not know each other. But coming together and playing together like this, and exposing our talents and potential like this, will help us to know one another and understand the community perspective and differences so that we can be one, and we can live in unity," said Rock Lungleng, President, NECOP.
A large number of spectators gathered to watch the thrilling tournament.
"As someone from the northeast, I should say that this is very encouraging both for the northeast youth and the northeast people who are living here," said Veleuno, a spectator.
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The Naga Student Union, Pune, won the title defeating the Manipur Student Association Pune 6-0.
The winners bagged a cash prize of Rs.20,000 along with a trophy while the First runners-up received Rs. 10,000 and a trophy.
"I am representing NSUP and very proud of that, and giving us a chance to play on the auspicious day, I am very proud, and I am sure we have displayed our best on the field of our final match, and we became victors. So, I am very proud," said Niyong Phazang, player, NSUP team
Many people from the northeast are settled in major cities across the country. And, sports can help build and strengthen bonds with local communities.