CM reviews arrangement for Durand Cup
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, August 16 2022:
Chief minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday visited the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex and reviewed various arrangements taken up for the 131st edition of the Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, for which inaugural match in the state will be played on August 18 .
Briefing the media during the inspection, CM N Biren appreciated officials of Youth Affairs and Sports Department and Army personnel for working day and night for properly arranging the set-up of the tournament.
He continued that many renowned footballers from different Indian clubs including state clubs - NEROCA and TRAU, would participate in the tournament.
He maintained that Manipur being a land of sports lovers despite having only around 28 lakh populations had sent seven athletes in the recently held Commonwealth Games 2022 and bagged five medals.
Knowing the potential of our players, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had established the only National Sports University in the state, the CM said while adding that the state has the opportunity of hosting the Durand Cup because of the achievements of our sportspersons in different events.
N Biren further mentioned that the Sports Department in consultation with technical experts and with the support of Army personnel had developed the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in a short span, making it one of the best football grounds in the eastern zone.
He informed that the government is planning to develop six more such football grounds before the next edition of Durand Cup.
The CM was accompanied by YAS minister Govindas Konthoujam, major general Navin Sachdeva, YAS principal secretary SS Chhabra, secretary Namoijam Kheda Varta Singh, director T Phulen Meitei and officials of YAS Department among others.
It may be mentioned that Union defence minister Rajnath Singh and chief of army staff general Manoj Pande will be visiting the state to witness the inaugural Durand Cup match at Khuman Lampak Stadium.