Indian Army Launches General Sagat Singh High Altitude Football Tournament At 13,000 Feet In Sikkim

The Indian Army has launched the General Sagat Singh High Altitude Football Tournament 2026 at Thegu in East Sikkim, bringing together 34 teams from across the region for a unique football competition held at an altitude of around 13,000 feet in the Himalayan frontier area.

The tournament was inaugurated on July 29, 2026, by Brigadier K Kiran, Commander of the 63 Mountain Brigade, who highlighted the importance of sports in developing discipline, teamwork, physical fitness and resilience while strengthening the bond between the Army and local communities. He urged players to compete with determination and maintain the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship.

Teams from Gnathang, Changu, Kupup, Zuluk, Namchi, Singtam, Ranipool and other parts of East Sikkim are participating in the tournament. Competing at Thegu presents additional challenges due to the high altitude, reduced oxygen levels and harsh Himalayan conditions, testing players’ endurance and adaptability.

Organised jointly by the Black Cat Division of the Indian Army and the Youth Org Committee, Thegu, the tournament aims to promote youth engagement, football culture and civil military cooperation in a strategically important border region. The Army said the initiative reflects its continued efforts to connect with local communities, encourage sporting talent and inspire young people through sports.

The event is part of the Army’s broader community outreach efforts in the region, where sports are used to strengthen trust and interaction between soldiers and civilians.

The tournament is being held in honour of General Sagat Singh, one of India’s most decorated military commanders, known for his leadership during the 1967 Nathu La and Cho La clashes and the 1971 Indo Pakistan War, where he played a key role in military operations.

The competition will continue until August 15, 2026, coinciding with India’s 79th Independence Day celebrations. Winning teams will receive cash prizes and football kits, while daily awards will recognise outstanding performances. No match results, knockout details or winners have been announced yet.