Employee Engagement Shines Bright at NTPC Bongaigaon with Thrilling Finale of 7-A-Side Departmental Football Tournament

Bongaigaon: 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 honored by the presence of Shri Akhilesh Singh, Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon, who inaugurated the tournament and served as the Chief Guest. In his address, Shri 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, underlining the role of sports in fostering a healthy and motivated workforce.

The event saw participation from several dignitaries, including Shri Debabrata Kar, GM (O&M); Shri Asutosh Biswas, GM (Operation) and President of the Sports Council, NTPC Bongaigaon; Shri Onkar Nath, AGM (HR); Shri Tamal Kanti Paul, General Secretary of the Sports Council, and its office bearers; Shri Sushil Kumar, AGM (CCD); and Heads of Departments from various sections. Representatives from the union and association were also present, demonstrating the collective support for employee welfare and engagement initiatives.

Special guests Smt. Sangeeta Singh, President of Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, and Smt. Soumya Kar, Vice President, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, graced the occasion, encouraging the teams with their spirited support and participation.

The tournament featured eight teams — Operation Thunder, Operation Striker, Ops United, Maintainers FC, Fixers Fury, Tech Tornadoes, Fuel Forces, and Service Squads — battling fiercely for the championship title. Operation Thunders, captained by Shri Ajay Ram Baro and managed by Shri Soumen Mallick, AGM (Operation), emerged victorious in a closely contested match against Operation Strikers, led by Captain Shri Deepak Anand and Manager Shri Rakesh Kumar, AGM (EEMG).

Shri 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. Shri Kar further recognized the outstanding performances of individual players, with Shri Saroj China named Player of the Tournament and Shri 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 Shri Umang Sarawgi (3rd Position), Shri Ram Ratan Barman (2nd Position), and the winner, Shri Hiranmay Mishra, who sustained his position for over six minutes. 

Shri 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.

Shri 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. It is pertinent to mention that more than 150 employees had participated in the Departmental Football Tournament.

The 7-A-Side Departmental Football Tournament 2024 at NTPC Bongaigaon successfully reinforced the spirit of unity, teamwork, and well-being among employees, making it a truly memorable event for all.