51st hot weather football c’ship kicks off in Mandi

The 51st All India Hot Weather Football Competition commenced at Paddal Ground in Mandi district yesterday. It featured eight teams, including participants from other states. Teams such as Rajasthan Police, Reserve Bank of India, Param Football Club Jammu, Shimla Football Club, Punjab Football Club Chandigarh, Triumph Football Club Mandi, DFA Mandi, and YFC Khadd Una are vying for the title.

The tournament was inaugurated by Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, who expressed enthusiasm for the event. In his address, he exhorted local residents, especially players to attend and support the matches. He emphasised that the competition would showcase high-quality football over the next five days.

DC highlighted the event’s purpose of promoting a drug-free message in Mandi. He urged everyone involved — players, team members, and organisers — to commit to efforts aimed at freeing society, and the nation from the evils of substance abuse.

The secretary of the organising committee welcomed the DC and explained that the primary goal of the five-day tournament is to encourage sports and motivate youth to channel their energy into activities rather than substance use.

This year’s competition is sponsored by several organisations, including the Life Insurance Corporation of India, Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam, Himachal Tourism Corporation, and NTPC.

Notable attendees at the inauguration included district welfare officer Sameer, tehsil welfare officer Chandan Guleria, chief manager of LIC Deshraj Thakur, manager of LIC Sonam Angroop, vice chairman of the All India Hot Weather Football Tournament Society KM Tiwari, member PN Saini, and Dr Rishabh.