President Droupadi Murmu on Friday unveiled the trophies of Durand Cup Tournament 2025 at a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre.
The 2025 edition of the Durand Cup will be held from July 23 to August 23 across six venues in West Bengal, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Jharkhand.
Organised by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army on behalf of the three Services, the tournament features matchups between Services teams and some of India’s top football clubs. In recent editions, the Durand Cup has also witnessed international participation, with Army teams from neighbouring countries joining the competition.
Speaking at the event, the President emphasized the unifying power of sports, highlighting how they promote discipline, determination, and team spirit.
“Sports have the unique power to connect people, regions, and countries. In India, they serve as a powerful tool for national integration,” she said, noting the collective pride felt when the Indian tricolour is raised at international events.
Highlighting the enduring popularity of football, President Murmu said the sport is more than a game – it is a passion that inspires millions. “Football is about strategy, endurance, and teamwork. Events like the Durand Cup nurture this spirit and provide a vital platform for emerging talent,” she added.
She also lauded the role of the Armed Forces in sustaining and promoting the legacy of the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament, which continues to play a key role in developing the sport in India.
