Imphal, July 15 (SocialNews.XYZ) Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Wednesday said that the state's rich footballing legacy has inspired generations of athletes and continues to shape the sporting aspirations of its youth, while Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh described football as an integral part of Manipur's identity that has produced numerous sporting icons.
The Governor, along with the Chief Minister, on Wednesday graced the Trophy Showcase Ceremony of the 135th Edition of the Durand Cup 2026 at the City Convention Centre in Imphal.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla said that Manipur has long been recognised as one of India's leading football nurseries, with its players consistently bringing laurels to the state and the country. He emphasised that the government's continued support for sports infrastructure and grassroots development would help nurture young talent and strengthen the state's sporting ecosystem.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said that football is deeply embedded in Manipur's culture and identity, and the state has produced several outstanding footballers whose achievements continue to inspire younger generations.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting sports by improving training facilities and expanding opportunities for aspiring athletes.
The three iconic trophies, the President's Cup (1956), the Durand Cup (1888) and the Simla Trophy (1903), were showcased following their ceremonial flag-off by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre earlier this month.
Earlier in the day, the tournament's promotional campaign in Manipur commenced with the flagging off of the 135th Durand Cup Trophy Tour from Sendra in Bishnupur District.
Speaking at the event, the Governor said that the Durand Cup is more than a football tournament, representing a celebration of history, resilience and the unifying power of sports. He remarked that Manipur's rich footballing legacy has inspired generations of athletes and continues to shape the sporting aspirations of its youth.
Bhalla expressed confidence that the tournament would provide young footballers with an opportunity to compete at the highest level, while reinforcing the values of discipline, teamwork and perseverance.
The Governor further stated that the return of the Durand Cup to Imphal would strengthen the spirit of unity, encourage greater participation in sports and contribute to the state's socio-economic development.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Indian Armed Forces in successfully bringing the prestigious tournament back to Manipur, describing it as a significant step towards promoting peace, normalcy and nation-building through sports.
Chief Minister Khemchand Singh expressed gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for organising the 135th Durand Cup and reaffirmed the state government's full support for its successful conduct. He said that hosting the tournament at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium would strengthen sports infrastructure, boost the local economy, and provide a valuable platform for local footballers to showcase their talent at the national level.
Later, the Governor graced the closing ceremony of the 19th Governor's Taekwondo Cup, Manipur 2026, at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal. Organised by the All-Manipur Taekwondo Association, the Governor's Taekwondo Cup was instituted in 2005 under the patronage of the then Governor of Manipur, S S Sidhu.
Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, MLA Kongkham Robindro Singh, along with other officials, athletes and the public attended the closing ceremony. The event witnessed the final bouts of the tournament, following which the Governor, along with the Speaker and the MLA, distributed prizes to the winners and participants.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Governor said that the Governor's Taekwondo Cup has become an important platform for nurturing young talent and promoting the values of discipline, perseverance and sportsmanship.
He stated that sports provide young people with purpose, confidence and resilience, while reinforcing teamwork and character.
Highlighting Manipur's remarkable sporting legacy, he expressed confidence that the state would continue to produce outstanding athletes through the collective efforts of sports associations, coaches, parents and the unwavering dedication of its youth.
He congratulated the winners and participants for their performances and appreciated the All-Manipur Taekwondo Association for its continued commitment to the development of the sport.
Established in 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament and remains a revered sporting event where tradition, excellence and passion converge. Organised by the Indian Armed Forces in collaboration with the government of Manipur, Imphal will host the Group D matches of the tournament at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium from July 28 to August 12, 2026.
Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Director General of Police Mukesh Singh, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Chief of Staff Eastern Command Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, GOC Red Shield Division Maj Gen Shubhankar Basu, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) Maj Gen Gaurav Sharma, senior civil, police and military officials, and the public attended the ceremony.
Source: IANS
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