The Business Bytes
Bongaigaon, September 04, 2024 (TBB Bureau): The 7-A-Side Departmental Football Tournament 2024 at NTPC Bongaigaon concluded with an electrifying final match on September 3, 2024, where Operation Thunders secured a hard-fought victory over Operation Strikers with a narrow 1-0 scoreline. The intense match kept the audience on the edge of their seats until the last whistle, capping off a spirited 10-day event that celebrated teamwork, sportsmanship, and camaraderie among NTPC employees.
The tournament’s final was graced by Akhilesh Singh, Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon, who inaugurated the tournament and served as the Chief Guest. In his address, Singh praised the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm, stating, “This tournament is more than just a game; it symbolizes unity, teamwork, and the spirit of NTPC Bongaigaon. Such events not only promote physical fitness but also strengthen the bonds among our employees, making our station a lively and dynamic place to work.” He emphasized the significance of balancing professional commitments with recreational activities, highlighting the role of sports in fostering a healthy and motivated workforce.
The event saw participation from several dignitaries, including Debabrata Kar, GM (O&M); Asutosh Biswas, GM (Operation) and President of the Sports Council, NTPC Bongaigaon; Onkar Nath, AGM (HR); Tamal Kanti Paul, General Secretary of the Sports Council; Sushil Kumar, AGM (CCD); and Heads of Departments from various sections. Representatives from the union and association were also present, showcasing collective support for employee welfare and engagement initiatives.
Special guests Sangeeta Singh, President of Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, and Soumya Kar, Vice President, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, graced the occasion, encouraging the teams with their spirited support.
The tournament featured eight teams — Operation Thunder, Operation Striker, Ops United, Maintainers FC, Fixers Fury, Tech Tornadoes, Fuel Forces, and Service Squads — fiercely competing for the championship title. Operation Thunders, captained by Ajay Ram Baro and managed by Soumen Mallick, AGM (Operation), emerged victorious in a closely contested match against Operation Strikers, led by Captain Deepak Anand and Manager Rakesh Kumar, AGM (EEMG).
Debabrata Kar, GM (O&M), presented the trophies and medals to the winning team, Operation Thunders, and the runners-up, Operation Striker, commending both teams for their remarkable performances. He also praised the Sports Council for their efforts in organizing an event that brought vibrancy to township life after office hours. Kar further recognized the outstanding performances of individual players, with Saroj China named Player of the Tournament and Gakul Ray receiving the Best Goalkeeper award.
Adding to the excitement, a plank challenge was conducted by the Sports Council, which saw enthusiastic participation from employees. Notable performances included Umang Sarawgi (3rd Position), Ram Ratan Barman (2nd Position), and the winner, Hiranmay Mishra, who sustained his position for over six minutes.
Asutosh Biswas, GM (Operation) and President of the Sports Council, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of such events in promoting a culture of fitness and unity within NTPC Bongaigaon. He expressed his appreciation to all participants and organizers for their contributions to the tournament’s success.
Akhilesh Singh concluded the ceremony by applauding the Sports Council for fostering camaraderie and unity among employees and reaffirmed NTPC Bongaigaon’s commitment to promoting sports and wellness activities. He thanked all participants and attendees for their roles in making the tournament a resounding success.
The event concluded on a high note, with cheers and celebrations echoing throughout the township, marking another memorable chapter in NTPC Bongaigaon’s vibrant employee engagement journey. Notably, over 150 employees participated in the Departmental Football Tournament, reinforcing the spirit of unity, teamwork, and well-being among employees and making it a truly memorable event for all.
