Assam: Durand Trophy unveiled in Kokrajhar

CORRESPONDENT,

KOKRAJHAR: In a vibrant celebration of football and community spirit, Kokrajhar played host to the prestigious Durand Cup trophy unveiling and tour today.

The spotlight was on the iconic trio of trophies—the original Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy (a rolling trophy gifted by the citizens of Shimla in 1904), and the President’s Cup (awarded permanently to the champions). These were displayed at the Bodofa Cultural Complex, where the atmosphere was charged with excitement, pride, and enthusiasm from the local crowd.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest, Assam Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Nandita Gorlosa officially flagged off the Durand Cup trophy tour in Kokrajhar at the Bodofa Cultural Complex. She was joined by Minister UG Brahma, Members of Parliament Joyanta Basumatary and Rwngwra Narzary, along with senior Army officers. Their presence underscored the state’s strong commitment to youth development and the promotion of sporting excellence.

In her speech, Minister Garlosa said, Kokrajhar was well known to all for emerging footballers. She said Kokrajhar was a trouble torn district earlier but now peace has returned and sporting activities are doing round BTR where the 134th edition of Durand Cup is being organized for the third consecutive times at SAI Stadium from July 27.        

The welcome ceremony of Durand trophies was attended by senior military dignitaries, including Major General H.S. Bajaj, VSM, Chief of Staff, Gajraj Corps, Major General Rajesh Arun Moghe, VSM, General Officer Commanding Bengal Sub Area, and Major General Rohin Bawa, YSM, General Officer Commanding Red Horns Division, who played host to the ceremony. Besides, BTC Speaker Katiram Boro, EM of Sports and Youth Welfare, Daobaisa Boro, MLA Lawrence Islary and footballer Durga Boro were also present on the occasion.

The Durand Cup is being played this year across six venues in five states- West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur. The grand Opening Ceremony of the 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup in Kokrajhar is scheduled to take place on July 27 at the SAI Stadium. The opening match will be held between Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Football Team and Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC. This thrilling opener is expected to draw large crowds and mark the beginning.

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