Sikkim’s Susmita Rai represents India at SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship

Tuesday, Feb 03, 2026 21:15 [IST]

Last Update: Monday, Feb 02, 2026 15:33 [IST]

Sikkim’s Susmita Rai represents India at SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship

GANGTOK,: It is a moment of great pride for Sikkim as Susmita Rai, a professional football official from Namchi, Sikkim, has been selected to represent India as an Assistant Referee at the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-19 Women’s Championship.

The prestigious international tournament is being held in Pokhara, Nepal, from 31 January to 7 February 2026, featuring emerging women football talents and match officials from South Asian nations. 

Susmita Rai’s selection reflects her high level of competence, dedication, and professionalism in football officiating, a press release informs.

Susmita Rai has expressed her sincere gratitude to the Chief Minister of Sikkim for the continued support and assistance extended to her, which has been instrumental in her professional journey and achievement at the international level.

Her achievement not only brings honor to Sikkim but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring referees and sportspersons across the State, the release mentions.


Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi