Valedictory Programme of Referee Refresher and Upgradation Course 2026 Held at Pakyong

Pakyong, January 26 (IPR): The Minister for Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Department, cum MLA, Mr Raju Basnet, graced the valedictory programme of the Referee Refresher and Upgradation Course 2026, organised by the Pakyong District Football Association (PDFA) under the aegis of Sikkim Football Association (SFA), at St Xavier’s School, Pakyong, today.

The course, scheduled from January 24 to January 26, aimed at refreshing and upgrading the referees’ knowledge, physical fitness, and officiating skills in accordance with the latest laws of the game, while focusing on enhancing decision-making abilities, match control, and overall on-field performance.

The event also had the presence of Vice President, SFA, Mr Gaden Tshering Lepcha; Secretary, SFA, Mr Arjun Rai; General Secretary cum Joint Director, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Mr Nim Dorjee Bhutia; Chief Referees Instructor, Mr Chamchuk Lama; Assistant Referee, Mr Subash Referee, Father Paul Kabo; along with executive members of SFA and PDFA.

Minister Mr Raju Basnet congratulated the participants on the successful completion of the course. He then stated that football is one of the most popular sports in the state and emphasised the vital role of academies in nurturing talent and enhancing technical skills.

Highlighting the importance of structured training, he mentioned that such programmes provide aspiring referees with a professional platform for growth and new opportunities, further advising the participants to maintain physical fitness and discipline to effectively perform in the sport.

Further, President, Pakyong District Football Association (PDFA) cum DFO (T), Mr SP Bhutia, informed that the course has been conducted for the first time in the district and informed that it provides a valuable platform for participants not only from within the state but also from neighbouring regions.

Emphasising its significance, he highlighted that the course would create new opportunities for young aspiring referees by enhancing their technical knowledge and professional exposure.

During the event, a feedback session was also conducted wherein the participants shared their experiences.

The programme concluded with the presentation of certificates to the referee instructors upon the successful completion of the course.

Report from DIO Pakyong