LATE CAPT N KENGURUSE, MVC MEMORIAL FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, Maha Vir Chakra was commissioned into the Indian Army on the 12 December 1998 and was the Ghatak Platoon Commander of the 2nd RAJPUTANA RIFLES during the attack on area Black Rock in the Drass Sector (Kashmir) on the night of 28 June 1999 during OPERATION VIJAY. He volunteered to undertake daring Commando Mission of attacking a well - sited enemy machine gun position, on a steep cliff face, which was interfering with all the approaches to the main objective of the battalion. As his team scaled the cliff, it came under intense mortar and automatic fire which caused heavy casualties.

Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, Maha Vir Chakra sustained splinter injury in his abdomen. Bleeding profusely yet undeterred, he urged his men to carry on with the assault. On reaching the final cliff he took off his shoes to get a good grip and scaled the obstructing rock wall carrying with him a rocket launcher, which he fired at the enemy position. Unmindful of his personal safety, he charged at the enemy position killing two men with his rifle and another two with his commando dagger before succumbing to injuries. He thus single handedly neutralised the enemy position which had held up the battalion's progress.

Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, Maha Vir Chakra displayed exceptional courage, leadership and spirit of self sacrifice in the face of the enemy till his last call of duty. For this act of valour he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous).

The tournament is more than just a football competition. It's a tribute to a fallen hero, a celebration of Nagaland's sporting spirit, and a reminder of the importance of service and community.

The tournament is held every year by the Assam Rifles from Tsiesema Village at IG Stadium.