Meghalaya Launches Trophy for 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup 2025

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma, unveiled the trophy for the 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup 2025 in Shillong, marking the start of the tournament's trophy road show. This prestigious event highlights Meghalaya's growing role in sports development, with local teams participating. The ceremony included discussions on significant investments in sports infrastructure and plans for future national events. The tournament will take place from July 23 to August 23, 2025, across five states, showcasing the region's commitment to nurturing football talent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 9, 2025, 15:14 IST

Trophy Unveiling Ceremony in Shillong

Shillong, July 9: The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma, officially presented the trophy for the 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup 2025 during a ceremony at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. This event marks the commencement of the tournament's trophy road show within the state.

The unveiling of the trophy highlights the significance of one of the oldest and most esteemed football tournaments globally, while also emphasizing Meghalaya's emerging role as a center for sports-driven youth development.

"I extend my gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for choosing Shillong once again as a host city. Eight matches, including a quarterfinal and a semifinal, will take place at the JN Sports Complex. Last year's edition was memorable, and this year is set to be even more exciting, particularly with the inclusion of more local teams," stated Chief Minister Sangma.

The trophy road show will traverse Shillong, Nongstoin, and Tura, providing residents with a unique opportunity to view the historic trophies up close prior to the tournament's kickoff.

This year, three teams from Meghalaya will compete in the Durand Cup: Shillong Lajong FC, Ryntih Sports Club, and the Meghalaya Police Football Team. Their involvement signifies a pivotal moment for local football and showcases the government's commitment to nurturing homegrown talent on both national and international stages.

The event was attended by Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri and various senior military and state officials.

The Chief Minister also pointed out the substantial investments made in sports infrastructure over the last seven years, totaling nearly Rs 2,000 crore, which includes the upcoming Mawkhanu Sports Complex, expected to be India's largest dedicated football stadium.

The Sports Minister expressed the government's dedication to cultivating Olympians from Meghalaya and shared plans to host the 2027 National Games, aiming for a target of 50 medals.

He also announced that Rs 39.17 crore has been allocated as grants to 26 sports associations to aid in athlete training.

Lt Gen Sanjay Malik commended the Government of Meghalaya for its proactive role in facilitating this segment of the tournament.

The ceremony concluded with an energetic performance of the official Meghalaya Durand Cup team anthem, "Here We Go."

The 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup is scheduled to occur from July 23 to August 23, 2025, across five states: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Manipur, and Meghalaya.