The Indian Army has played a pivotal role in India’s sporting success by nurturing elite athletes and promoting excellence through institutions such as the Army Sports Institute and Mission Olympics. Army sportspersons have brought laurels to the nation at the Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and World Championships, reflecting the Armed Forces’ enduring commitment to discipline, resilience and sporting excellence.
The Durand Cup Trophy Unveiling Ceremony of the 135th Durand Cup was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ enduring commitment to promoting football, national integration and sporting excellence. Senior military leadership described the tournament as a symbol of discipline, teamwork and unity, while highlighting its role in strengthening civil-military engagement and nurturing future football talent.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, President of the Durand Football Tournament Society, said the growing popularity of the Durand Cup reflects the rising stature of Indian football and expressed confidence that this year’s edition would inspire players and fans alike. Lieutenant General Rajesh Sethi, GOC-In-C,Delhi Area emphasised that the tournament brings together the Indian Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces, leading clubs and, for the first time, Sri Lanka’s Defender FC, reinforcing both national cohesion and regional friendship.
Lieutenant General V.M. Bhuvana Krishnan , GOC-In-C, Eastern Command highlighted the Eastern Command’s continued role in developing football infrastructure, grassroots outreach and youth participation, particularly across eastern and northeastern India.“Over the years, the Eastern Command has been proud to play a vital role in nurturing this legacy. Our region rich in footballing culture, from Kolkata’s historic clubs to emerging centres across the East and Northeast has become a vibrant hub for players and fans alike. The Eastern Command have supported infrastructure, youth outreach, and competitive platforms that have helped local talent rise to national prominence. Grassroots programmes and military civilian partnerships have brought football to thousands of children in towns and districts that once had limited access to structured training.”-General Krishnan added.
Following the flag-off ceremony, the Trophy Tour will travel across all five host cities, offering football fans an opportunity to witness the iconic silverware ahead of the tournament. The trophies will be on display in Shillong from July 11 to 14, before travelling to Imphal on July 15, Guwahati on July 16 and 17, Ranchi on July 18 and 19, and concluding in Kolkata on July 21 with the official pre-tournament press conference.
The 135th Durand Cup will be held from July 25 to August 23 across Kolkata, Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong and Guwahati, with Ranchi making its debut as a host city. Organised by the Eastern Command on behalf of the three Services, the Durand Cup, established in 1888, remains the world’s third-oldest surviving football tournament and a key platform for Services teams, established clubs and emerging football talent.
