Imphal, Jul 10 (PTI) Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday asserted that hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup is a testament to the state's deep passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishment.

Manipur is gearing up for the football spectacle as Group F matches of the Durand Cup will be played at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium here from July 30 to August 12. The group features TRAU FC, NEROCA FC, Indian Navy FT, and Real Kashmir FC.

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Speaking at the Trophy Showcase Ceremony in Imphal, Bhalla highlighted Manipur's legacy as a powerhouse of sports and emphasised the importance of youth engagement through such tournaments.

Commending the Indian Army's consistent role in promoting sports and national integration, the governor expressed confidence that the Durand Cup will "inspire a new generation of young athletes in the region".

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"Hosting this tournament in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishment," he said.

"The Indian Army has consistently been a pillar of strength in promoting sports and youth engagement. The enthusiastic participation of the people of Manipur in such initiatives reflects the deep mutual respect and the strong emotional bond between the armed forces and our society," he added.

The governor extended his best wishes to all participating teams and encouraged the public to witness the matches to make this edition of the tournament a resounding success.

Earlier, at the flag-off of the Trophy Tour and Road Show of the prestigious cup from Sendra in Bishnupur district, Olympics bronze medallist Mirabai Chanu expressed pride in Manipur being selected as a host state amid challenging times and urged young athletes to stay committed to sports.

The Trophy Tour covered a 70-km route starting from Sendra and passed through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei Bazar, Manipur University, Kangla Western Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery), Lamlong Bazar, and concluded at the City Convention Centre in Imphal.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)