Khowai, Jan 9: A friendly T20 cricket match between Khowai School Inspectorate and Padmabil School Inspectorate was organised on Friday at the Baijalbari Higher Secondary School ground with a strong social message to prevent child marriage, combat drug abuse among youth, and spread awareness on AIDS.
The match, jointly organised by Khowai Block and Padmabil Block, aimed to use sports as a tool to bring young people back to the mainstream and steer them away from addiction and social evils.
The programme was inaugurated by Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Aparna Singh Roy Dutta, while local MLA Ranjit Debbarma attended as the chief guest. Other dignitaries present included Joint Director of Secondary Education Dilip Debbarma, Khowai District Magistrate Rajat Panth, Baijalbari H.S. School Headmistress Manidipa Shil, and several officials and educationists.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Ranjit Debbarma said such sporting events play a crucial role in motivating youth to stay away from drugs, avoid child marriage, and build a secure future through positive engagement.
The event began with a traditional welcome, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and a vibrant tribal folk dance “Mamita” performed by young artists. This was followed by speeches from the invited guests. The national anthem was later rendered under the leadership of cultural activist Sour Pratim Sharma.
In the match, Khowai Block scored 181 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs, while Padmabil Block were bowled out for 158 runs in 19.2 overs, giving Khowai Block a well-fought victory.
Achinta Roy was declared Man of the Match. Khowai Block lifted the Champion Trophy, while Padmabil Block finished as runners-up.
All participating players were awarded medals. The match officials included umpires Suman Goswami and Sanjeev Das, with scoring managed by Banabir Debbarma, Padma Debbarma, Subrata Bhowmik, and Sujay Deb.
