Latest news with #EasternCommand
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Sport
- India Gazette
Durand Cup returns to Imphal with a grand trophy tour
Imphal (Manipur)[India], July 11(ANI): Imphal welcomed the 134th Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour as Asia's oldest football tournament returned to Manipur's capital after a gap of two years. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased here at the City Convention Centre in the presence of Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Governor of Manipur, who was the Chief Guest of the event. Also present were Prashant Kumar Singh IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur and senior military leadership, including Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra AVSM SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar AVSM YSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps, Maj Gen SS Karthikeya YSM SM, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh YSM SM, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South) and Rajiv Singh IPS -DGP Manipur. The three glittering pieces of silverware, the Durand Cup, the original prize and the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), as well as the President's Cup, which the winners keep permanently, were unveiled during the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Manipur said, 'Hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command, for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state's identity. Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th Edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way'. Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra shared his thoughts, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has witnessed the evolution of Indian football, producing legends, uniting communities, and igniting passions across generations. In recent years, under the stewardship of Eastern Command, the Durand Cup has experienced remarkable growth in stature, reach and quality. Our efforts, in close partnership with stakeholders across the country, have ensured that the tournament retains its heritage while embracing modern professionalism. I invite the people of this great city, football enthusiasts, and the vibrant youth of Manipur to come forward, be part of history, and experience world-class football at your doorstep. Together, let us celebrate the beautiful game, honour tradition, and inspire the next generation.' Also speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar said, 'The Durand Cup is a tournament steeped in history and tradition, organised under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces. It serves not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a living tribute to the enduring bond between the military and the people of India. This unique tournament has, over generations, stood as a symbol of camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship. I wish to express how truly historic and meaningful it is to witness the Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament in Asia, being hosted once again in the glorious state of Manipur - a land synonymous with resilience, rich culture, and an unshakeable love for football. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, for his wholehearted support and backing for the conduct of this year's Durand Cup in Imphal.' The trophy tour started in the morning from Sendra and travelled through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery) and Lamlong Bazar before arriving at the City Convention Centre. Eight members of the Women's National team from Manipur, including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi and Lynda Serto Kom, who recently qualified for the 2026 AFC Women's Asia Cup, were also present at the roadshow flag off. A total of six matches will be played in Imphal, with the first match scheduled on 30th July. The Khuman Lampak Stadium will host local sides North Eastern Reorganising Cultural Association (NEROCA FC) and Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU FC), who will face each other in the Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team are the other sides in the group. (ANI)
News18
4 days ago
- Sport
- News18
Durand Cup Returns To Manipur's Imphal With Grand Trophy Tour
Imphal celebrated the arrival of the 134th Durand Cup trophies, marking the return of Asia's oldest football tournament to Manipur after two years. Imphal celebrated the arrival of the 134th Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour, marking the return of Asia's oldest football tournament to Manipur's capital after a two-year hiatus. The three trophies were displayed at the City Convention Centre, attended by Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Hon'ble Governor of Manipur, who was the Chief Guest. Also present were Shri Prashant Kumar Singh IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, and senior military leaders including Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra AVSM SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee, Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar AVSM YSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps, Maj Gen S.S Karthikeya YSM SM, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh YSM SM, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South), and Shri Rajiv Singh IPS, DGP Manipur. The displayed trophies included the Durand Cup, the original prize, the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), and the President's Cup, which the winners keep permanently. Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla remarked, 'Hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state's identity. Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th Edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way". Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra shared, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has witnessed the evolution of Indian football, producing legends, uniting communities, and igniting passions across generations. In recent years, under the stewardship of Eastern Command, the Durand Cup has experienced remarkable growth in stature, reach and quality. Our efforts, in close partnership with stakeholders across the country, have ensured that the tournament retains its heritage while embracing modern professionalism. I invite the people of this great city, football enthusiasts, and the vibrant youth of Manipur to come forward, be part of history, and experience world-class football at your doorstep. Together, let us celebrate the beautiful game, honour tradition, and inspire the next generation." Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar added, The Durand Cup, is a tournament steeped in history and tradition, organized under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces. It serves not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a living tribute to the enduring bond between the military and the people of India. This unique tournament has, over generations, stood as a symbol of camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship. I wish to express how truly historic and meaningful it is to witness the Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament in Asia, being hosted once again in the glorious state of Manipur – a land synonymous with resilience, rich culture, and an unshakeable love for football. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla for his wholehearted support and backing for the conduct of this year Durand Cup in Imphal." The trophy tour commenced in the morning from Sendra, passing through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery), and Lamlong Bazar before arriving at the City Convention Centre. Eight members of the Women's National team from Manipur, including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, and Lynda Serto Kom, who recently qualified for the 2026 AFC Women's Asia Cup, were present at the roadshow flag-off. What Durand Cup Matches Will Be Played In Manipur? Six matches will be played in Imphal, with the first match scheduled for 30th July. The Khuman Lampak Stadium will host local teams NEROCA FC and TRAU FC in the Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team are also in the group. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Droupadi Murmu flags off 134th Durand Cup trophies at the Rashtrapati Bhawan
In a moment steeped in legacy and national pride, President Droupadi Murmu , recently flagged off the three iconic Durand Cup trophies from the Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre (RBCC), formally marking the commencement of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup – Asia's oldest and India's most prestigious football is the second consecutive year the President has performed this symbolic gesture, reaffirming the Cup's enduring significance as a unique confluence of sport, service and nationhood. The ceremony also continues a proud post-independence tradition of the Supreme Commander's direct association with the Durand Cup. The ceremony at the RBCC saw the presence of General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Air Staff and Lt General RC Tiwari, GOC-in-C Eastern Command and Patron, Durand Cup Organizing Committee (DCOC). Also gracing the occasion was Arjuna Award recipient and renowned Indian footballer Sandesh Jhingan. Speaking at the occasion, President Murmu acknowledged the Durand Cup as a living symbol of India's footballing heritage and Armed Forces' sporting commitment, and said, 'Football has a special place in the hearts of millions. It is not just a sport; it is a passion. The game of football is all about strategy, endurance and working together towards a common goal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Secure your family's future! ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo Events like the Durand Cup not only foster the spirit of the game but also help develop the next generation of football players, providing them with a platform to grow. She appreciated the role of the Armed Forces in keeping alive and promoting the spirit of the Durand Cup.' Lt General RC Tiwari, GOC-in-C Eastern Command and Patron, DCOC, in his address, also reiterated Durand's importance for young football talent in the country saying, 'The Durand Cup, conducted by the Indian Army on behalf of the Armed Forces, is far more than a football tournament. It is a celebration of India's unity in diversity, of our belief in character through competition, and of our duty to nurture the next generation through the timeless values of teamwork, discipline and resilience. ' This year for the first time ever, Durand Cup is being played across five states – West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya and Manipur. Also, at a time when Indian football is searching for fresh heroes and renewed belief, the Durand Cup continues to serve as a nation-building platform – a competitive crucible where aspiring footballers from academies, Services teams and state clubs from the remotest corners of the Nation can rise, shine and inspire.
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
In a first, Army's Eastern Command uses regional languages for social media posts on Durand Cup
Kolkata: For the first time, in its vernacular language outreach, the Eastern Command of the Indian Army has started using regional languages, including Bengali, Assamese and Manipuri, on social media handle during its posts on Durand Cup 2025 . 'Indian Army has started sharing information in vernacular languages in Bengali, Assamese and Manipuri, apart from English and Hindi. It is aimed to connect and reach out to more number of people, especially the non-English speaking people, who are conversant in vernacular languages, so that the information has better reach,' CPRO Himanshu Tiwari told ET. On Saturday, the Eastern Command, posted in three vernacular languages -Bengali, Manipuri (Meitei) and Assamese languages on its official social media Handle. 'With aim to connect with broader audience and reach the locals, in their vernacular languages, we have introduced the outreach in Bengali, Manipuri and Assamese,' a senior army officer said. In future, other regional vernacular languages, used in the North Eastern region, which falls under Eastern Command, may also be seen as medium of local outreach and communication by the Indian Army, people in the know told ET. Live Events The Eastern Command's new regional language outreach started for the first time with posts on Saturday about the Indian Oil Durand Cup. Jamshedpur, the Steel City of the country, will host Durand Cup for second consecutive year with a grand trophy showcase with the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup. The city is gearing up to host Asia's oldest football tournament with three silver trophies of the Durand Cup reaching the city and getting showcased here at the XLRI Auditorium today. Jamshedpur will host four teams with hosts and pride of the Steel City Jamshedpur FC, 1 Ladakh FC who will be making their debut in Durand Cup, Indian Army FT and Tribhuvan Army FT of Nepal Army adding international flavour to the tournament. A total of seven matches, including one quarterfinal will be played at the JRD Tata Sports Complex with the first match scheduled on 24th July with the other group stage matches to be played on 29 July, 2, 5, 8 and 11 August. The quarterfinals will be played on August 17. Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Economic Times
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Economic Times
In a first, Army's Eastern Command uses regional languages for social media posts on Durand Cup
Synopsis The Indian Army's Eastern Command is broadening its reach by incorporating Bengali, Assamese, and Manipuri into its social media communications, alongside English and Hindi, starting with posts about the Durand Cup 2024. This initiative aims to connect with a wider audience, particularly non-English speakers in the region. PTI Durand Cup 2025 Kolkata: For the first time, in its vernacular language outreach, the Eastern Command of the Indian Army has started using regional languages, including Bengali, Assamese and Manipuri, on social media handle during its posts on Durand Cup 2025.'Indian Army has started sharing information in vernacular languages in Bengali, Assamese and Manipuri, apart from English and Hindi. It is aimed to connect and reach out to more number of people, especially the non-English speaking people, who are conversant in vernacular languages, so that the information has better reach,' CPRO Himanshu Tiwari told ET. On Saturday, the Eastern Command, posted in three vernacular languages -Bengali, Manipuri (Meitei) and Assamese languages on its official social media Handle.'With aim to connect with broader audience and reach the locals, in their vernacular languages, we have introduced the outreach in Bengali, Manipuri and Assamese,' a senior army officer future, other regional vernacular languages, used in the North Eastern region, which falls under Eastern Command, may also be seen as medium of local outreach and communication by the Indian Army, people in the know told ET. The Eastern Command's new regional language outreach started for the first time with posts on Saturday about the Indian Oil Durand Cup. Jamshedpur, the Steel City of the country, will host Durand Cup for second consecutive year with a grand trophy showcase with the 134th IndianOil Durand city is gearing up to host Asia's oldest football tournament with three silver trophies of the Durand Cup reaching the city and getting showcased here at the XLRI Auditorium will host four teams with hosts and pride of the Steel City Jamshedpur FC, 1 Ladakh FC who will be making their debut in Durand Cup, Indian Army FT and Tribhuvan Army FT of Nepal Army adding international flavour to the tournament. A total of seven matches, including one quarterfinal will be played at the JRD Tata Sports Complex with the first match scheduled on 24th July with the other group stage matches to be played on 29 July, 2, 5, 8 and 11 August. The quarterfinals will be played on August 17.
