Hon. President of India Flags Off 134th Durand Cup Trophies in a Grand Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan

New Delhi, July 4, 2025: In a moment steeped in legacy and national pride, the Honble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, today flagged off the three iconic Durand Cup trophies from the Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre (RBCC), formally marking the commencement of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup – Asias oldest and Indias most prestigious football tournament.

This is the second consecutive year the Honble President has performed this symbolic gesture, reaffirming the Durand Cups enduring significance as a unique confluence of sport, service and nationhood. The ceremony also continues a proud post-independence tradition of the Supreme Commanders direct association with the Durand Cup.

The ceremony at the RBCC saw the presence of General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Air Staff and Lt General RC Tiwari, GOC-in-C Eastern Command and Patron, Durand Cup Organizing Committee (DCOC). Also gracing the occasion was Arjuna Award recipient and renowned Indian footballer Sandesh Jhingan.

Speaking at the occasion, President Murmu acknowledged the Durand Cup as a living symbol of Indias footballing heritage and Armed Forces sporting commitment, adding that “football has a special place in the hearts of millions. It is not just a sport; it is a passion. The game of football is all about strategy, endurance and working together towards a common goal. Events like the Durand Cup not only foster the spirit of the game but also help develop the next generation of football players, providing them with a platform to grow. She appreciated the role of the Armed Forces in keeping alive and promoting the spirit of the Durand Cup.”

General Anil Chauhan Chief of Defence Staff on the occasion said, The Durand Cup is a legacy of valour, discipline, and unity that reflects the finest traditions of our Armed Forces and our nation. As we embark on another chapter of this historic competition, we are honoured by the presence of the Honble President of India in flagging off this edition. This gesture reaffirms the enduring bond between sport, service, and the spirit of India."