Gauhati Press Club Establishes Annual Sukumar Medhi Award

Shillong, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: The Gauhati Press Club (GPC) has announced the establishment of an annual award in memory of the esteemed sports organiser, journalist, and social worker Sukumar Medhi from Chhaygaon. This award will be presented each year during the Abhiruchi Sports Day celebrations in September, a significant event in the local sports calendar that celebrates athletic achievements and community spirit.

The announcement was made by GPC president Khagen Kalita during a memorial meeting held at the Press Club on Saturday. The meeting was organized by the Abhiruchi Sports Day Celebration Committee to pay tribute to Medhi, who recently passed away after a brief illness. This gathering served not only as a remembrance of Medhi's contributions but also as a platform to discuss the future of sports and community engagement in the region.

Kalita emphasized Medhi’s significant contributions to both sports and society, stating that the award aims to preserve his legacy and acknowledge individuals who have made remarkable contributions to sports organization and community service. The creation of this award reflects a broader recognition of the vital role that individuals like Medhi play in fostering sports culture and community involvement. The award will be presented in collaboration with the Abhiruchi Group during the annual Abhiruchi Sports Day festivities, which are designed to inspire youth and promote sportsmanship.

Sukumar Medhi was a prominent sports organiser, senior journalist, and devoted social worker from Chhaygaon. His career spanned several decades during which he made significant strides in promoting sports at the grassroots level. As a senior member of the Assam Sports Journalists’ Association, he regularly contributed sports reports and articles to various local newspapers and magazines, providing a voice for local athletes and sports events. Medhi was actively involved in the Abhiruchi Sports Day movement for nearly four decades, helping to organize events that not only showcased athletic talent but also fostered community spirit and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.

The memorial meeting was attended by several distinguished personalities, including Balendra Mohan Chakravarty, chairman of the Abhiruchi Sports Day Celebration Committee, former minister Kamala Kalita, and Subodh Malla Barua, chairman of the Assam Sports Journalists’ Association, along with other notable sports organizers and journalists. Their presence underscored the impact Medhi had on the community and the respect he garnered from his peers in the sports and journalism fields.

Medhi’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments; he was known for his unwavering commitment to social causes and community development. His work often intersected with his passion for sports, as he believed in the power of athletics to unite people and promote healthy lifestyles. By establishing an award in his name, the Gauhati Press Club seeks to inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps, emphasizing the importance of dedication, hard work, and community service.

The Abhiruchi Sports Day, which has become a hallmark of sporting excellence in the region, not only celebrates athletic achievements but also serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing talent from a young age. The event typically features a variety of sports competitions, cultural programs, and community engagement activities, drawing participants from across the region. The establishment of the Sukumar Medhi Award will add a new dimension to this annual celebration, encouraging individuals to strive for excellence in both sports and community service.

In related news, Asheer Akhtar has extended his contract with NorthEast United FC, a move that reflects the club's commitment to maintaining a strong team for the upcoming season. Akhtar's continued presence in the squad is seen as a positive development for the team, which aims to build on its past performances and enhance its competitiveness in the league.

The announcement of the Sukumar Medhi Award and the news regarding Akhtar's contract extension highlight the vibrant sports culture in Assam and the ongoing efforts to promote and support local talent. The combination of honoring past contributions while also looking forward to future developments in sports creates a dynamic environment that encourages growth and excellence in the region.

As the Gauhati Press Club moves forward with the establishment of this award, it also opens up discussions about the future of sports journalism and the role it plays in shaping public perception and support for sports initiatives. Journalists like Medhi have paved the way for aspiring sports writers and reporters, demonstrating the importance of storytelling in sports and how it can influence community engagement and support for local athletes.

The establishment of the Sukumar Medhi Award is particularly significant in the context of Assam's sports landscape, which has historically faced challenges such as limited resources and infrastructure. By recognizing the contributions of individuals who dedicate their lives to sports and community development, the award aims to encourage a new generation of sports enthusiasts to engage with their communities and contribute positively.

Moreover, the award serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of sports and social responsibility. Medhi’s work exemplified how sports can be a vehicle for social change, promoting values like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The recognition of these values through the award is expected to resonate with young athletes who are looking for role models in their pursuit of excellence.

In the broader context of sports in India, the establishment of such awards is crucial for the development of a robust sports culture. As the nation continues to invest in sports infrastructure and training programs, recognizing individuals who contribute to these efforts can inspire further investment and participation at all levels. The Sukumar Medhi Award aligns with national efforts to promote sports as a means of personal and community development, mirroring initiatives taken by various sports federations and organizations across the country.

In conclusion, the establishment of the Sukumar Medhi Award by the Gauhati Press Club serves as a fitting tribute to a remarkable individual whose contributions to sports and society will not be forgotten. It reinforces the idea that sports are not just about competition but also about community, service, and the shared experiences that bring people together. As the award is presented annually during the Abhiruchi Sports Day, it will undoubtedly inspire many to contribute positively to the world of sports and beyond, ensuring that Medhi's legacy lives on through the actions of future generations.