Peace through sports, Army brings the Durand Cup to Imphal

Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem (International Player of India)
Manipur is a State where sports is a way of life. This land of warriors has produced countless National and international athletes across various disciplines, with football holding a special place in the hearts of its people. From children playing in every street and open grounds to players representing India on the international stage, football is deeply rooted in the culture of Manipur. Whenever football comes to the State, people welcome it with immense excitement, pride, and enthusiasm.
The Durand Cup, being one of the oldest football tournaments in the world, carries immense prestige and history. I have had the privilege of participating in this historic tournament on multiple occasions. I have also had the privilege of lifting the trophy of this pres- tigious tournament twice with FC Goa and finishing  as runners-up with Mohun Bagan. Having experienced it firsthand, I understand the significance of this tournament, not just as a com- petition, but as a celebration of Indian football. It provides a unique platform where top clubs from the ISL and I-League, Defence teams, and local clubs compete together, raising the standard of the game and creating opportunities for players at every level.
Football has no language, no culture, and no religion, only love of the game. It unites people beyond their differences. Inside the electrifying atmosphere of the stadium, everyone cheers for the same game, shares the same emotions, and celebrates together. That is the true power of football.
Bringing the IndianOil Durand Cup back to Manipur for the 135th edition, is much more than hosting a football tournament. It is a catalyst for people from different walks of life and  communities of  Manipur to come together with a shared passion, creating an all pervasive environment of unity, hope, and positivity. It would also give thousands of young footballers the opportunity to watch their idols play in front of them, inspiring them to dream bigger, work harder, and believe that they too can represent their clubs and country one day.
Here, I want to commend the Indian Army for making this possible. Despite challenging circumstances, the Army has continued to organise and support the IndianOil Durand Cup with professionalism and commitment. By ensuring a safe, secure, and well-organised tournament, the Army has demonstrated how sport can become a bridge between communities. Their efforts go beyond hosting matches—they create an atmosphere where football can thrive, where people can come together peacefully, and where the youth are encouraged to channelise their energy into sports.
In a State like Manipur, where football is an emotion, the return of the IndianOil Durand Cup will send a powerful message that hope, unity, and peace can prevail through sport. Football has the ability to heal, inspire, and connect people, and the Durand Cup provides the perfect platform for that spirit to flourish.