Guwahati: As part of Operation Sadbhavana, Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army on Sunday organised a friendly football match between the border villages of Gnathang and Kupup in East Sikkim along the Indo-China border. The match between the villages was played at an altitude of 12,600 feet above the sea level.


The friendly football match was aimed at strengthening the bond between the Indian Army and the local populace while promoting a sense of nationalism, unity and camaraderie. 


The match, held amidst the snow-capped mountains and picturesque landscape of East Sikkim, showcased the army’s commitment to fostering a nationalistic fervour, goodwill and cooperation in the border areas of the country, Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Guwahati said in a government statement on Monday.


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The match drew enthusiastic participation from the local youth "creating an atmosphere of excitement, oneness and mutual respect." 


Local residents expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the Indian Army in organising such events that go beyond security measures. 


Initiatives like these contribute significantly to building trust and fostering nationalistic sentiments and positive relationships between the Indian Army and civilians in the remote areas along the Indo-China border, Lt Col Rawat said.  


Gnathang village emerged victorious in the match. In the prize distribution ceremony, the army recognised players for their skills, spirit, fitness and dedication to the game. 


It reaffirmed its commitment to continuing such community-driven activities in the future, promoting harmony and solidarity in the border villages of Sikkim, Lt Col Rawat added.


Operation Sadbhavana, with its focus on community development, has been pivotal in creating a positive impact on the lives of the residents living in the border villages of India, Lt Col Rawat further said.


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