IMPHAL/UKHRUL: Football fever swept across Manipur on Wednesday as the Imphal leg of the 135th Durand Cup officially commenced with a grand trophy unveiling ceremony and a state-wide roadshow, marking the return of Asia’s oldest football tournament to one of India’s strongest footballing states.
The celebrations began at Sendra View Point overlooking Loktak Lake, where the iconic Durand Cup Trophy, President’s Cup and Shimla Trophy were unveiled before being flagged off for a roadshow across the state. Jointly organised by the Indian Armed Forces and the Government of Manipur, the event witnessed the participation of senior military officers, state dignitaries, former international footballers and hundreds of football enthusiasts.
Manipur home minister Govindas Konthoujam flagged off the Trophy Tour and Bike Rally along with senior Indian Army officers. Among those present were Arjuna Awardees Oinam Bembem Devi and Mayanglambam Bimoljit Singh, former world champion boxer Laishram Sarita Devi, and Indian goalkeeper Dheeraj Moirangthem.
Addressing the gathering, Govindas Konthoujam described the occasion as a proud moment for the state and thanked the Indian Army for bringing the prestigious tournament back to Manipur. He said the Durand Cup symbolises sporting excellence, discipline, teamwork and national integration, while reflecting the strong partnership between the armed forces and the sporting community.
Calling Manipur the “powerhouse of sports”, he said sports are deeply embedded in the lives of the people and expressed confidence that the tournament would inspire a new generation of footballers.
Later in the day, governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla unveiled the three trophies at the City Convention Centre in the presence of chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, senior civil and military officials, and members of the football fraternity, formally launching the Imphal leg of the tournament.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Bhalla said the return of the Durand Cup to Khuman Lampak Main Stadium represented far more than a sporting event.
“It is a catalyst for hope and renewal. The roar of our football-loving crowds can achieve what few policy initiatives alone can accomplish. It heals, builds bridges, strengthens communities and unites people. The 135th edition of the IndianOil Durand Cup is a testament to the resilience, optimism and resurgence of Manipur,” he said.
Chief minister Yumnam Khemchand said football is deeply rooted in Manipur’s culture and continues to unite people across generations.
“Hosting Durand Cup matches in Imphal is a matter of great pride. More importantly, it gives our young footballers an invaluable platform to showcase their talent before scouts, clubs and football enthusiasts from across the country,” he said.
Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, chief of staff, Headquarters Eastern Command, highlighted Manipur’s unmatched contribution to Indian football.
“Football is part of the everyday rhythm of life in Manipur. Nearly 80 footballers from the state have featured in the Indian Super League and other top domestic competitions, while around 20 have represented India at the international level. Though small in size, Manipur is immense in its passion for football,” he said.
Khuman Lampak Main Stadium will host all Group D league matches from July 28 to August 17, besides one quarter-final fixture. The Imphal leg will feature NEROCA FC, TRAU FC, the Indian Navy Football Team (INFT)and debutants FC Raengdai.
On the sidelines of the programme, home minister Govindas Konthoujam also responded to questions regarding Tuesday’s incident in Senapati district, where an Indian Army camp was allegedly set on fire. He said the government had only received preliminary information through media reports and other sources, adding that initial inputs suggested the incident was linked to the aftermath of the recent ambush in Nagaland. He said further details were awaited.
