Manipur concludes final football trials for 1st Khelo India Tribal Games

Imphal: The Directorate of Youth Affairs and Sports, Manipur, successfully concluded the Final State-Level Selection Trial in football for the 1st Edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games on January 9, 2026, at the Astro Turf, Senapati district headquarters.

The 1st Edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games (football), 2026, is scheduled to be held in Chhattisgarh from February 14, 2026 onwards.

The Khelo India Tribal Games aims to promote sports and identify talent among tribal athletes, providing opportunities for scholarships and financial support.

The selection trial in football was conducted for an open age category, for both men and women.

A total of 36 ST women and 46 ST men from various districts participated in the final selection trial under the supervision of the District Youth Affairs and Sports Office, Senapati, and expert sports mentors from different districts.

The final 22 players selected in both men’s and women’s football categories will represent the State at the 1st Edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games, 2026, in Chhattisgarh from February 14 onwards.

The final round followed a rigorous series of pre-selection trials held on January 5, 2026, across multiple venues, including Thomas Ground, Kangpokpi; Chandel Sports Complex; Tuibong Peace Ground, Churachandpur; and Khuman Lampak Sports Complex.