Guwahati: Chief Minister Himanata Biswa Sarma unveiled the three Durand Cup trophies, namely Durand Cup, Shimla Trophy and President's Cup in a glittering function in the city today. The trophies were brought to Guwahati as a part of a five-city tour.
Guwahati will be one of the venues for the next edition of the Durand Cup and the competition will kick off here on August 17. The trophy tour kicked off on July 19 from Kolkata and after being in Guwahati for two-day it will proceed to Imphal, the second venue in the North East. Later the trophies will visit Jaipur and Goa before returning to Kolkata on July 31.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister termed the holding of the matches for the tournament in Assam a historic event for the people of the state. Stating that football isn't just a game but an emotion for the people of Assam, Sarma said that the government has been nurturing talents so that the country becomes a sporting superpower in days to come. He further stated that all efforts are on to revive the glories of tournaments such as Bordoloi Trophy in the state.
Speaking on steps taken by the government of Assam for growth of sporting culture in the state, Sarma elaborated on measures such as construction of new stadiums, coaching camps, employment opportunities for sportspersons, sports pension, etc.
Today's event was also attended by Chairman of the Durand Organising Committee Lt General KK Repswal, Chief Secretary Jishnu Barua, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (101 Area) Lt. General KC Panchanathan and a host of other senior officials from the armed forces and the government of Assam.
In a brief speech Repswal said, "The cooperation from the Assam Government has been phenomenal and we are confident that this will herald a new beginning for the game in the State."
Also watch: