PNS
RANCHI
Preparations for the 135th edition of the Durand Cup have gathered momentum in Ranchi, with the state administration intensifying efforts to ensure the successful hosting of one of Asia’s oldest football tournaments. A high-level review meeting was held on Monday at the FFP Building in Dhurwa to finalise arrangements for the tournament, which will be held at Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Morabadi, from July 26 to August 16, 2026.
Chairing the meeting, Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary Mukesh Kumar directed all concerned departments to ensure flawless execution of the event, stating that there should be no lapses in preparations. He instructed officials to maintain the highest standards in fire safety, stadium branding, accommodation for players and dignitaries, invitation management, and overall security arrangements.
The Secretary also directed the deployment of magistrates in accordance with the match schedule to maintain law and order throughout the tournament. Ranchi Municipal Corporation was instructed to ensure systematic sanitation and cleanliness in and around the stadium, while police and administrative authorities were asked to strengthen security measures and traffic management to facilitate smooth movement of spectators and participants.
To build public enthusiasm ahead of the tournament, the Indian Army will organise a Durand Cup Trophy Tour in Ranchi on July 18. During the event, the trophy will be taken through prominent routes across the city to connect residents with the historic football championship and generate excitement among sports enthusiasts.
Responsibilities for various aspects of the event have been assigned to the district administration and departments including health, power, tourism, sports, culture and information and public relations, with officials directed to work in close coordination for the successful conduct of the tournament.
The Durand Cup matches in Ranchi are expected to provide a major boost to the state’s sporting ecosystem while encouraging greater interest in football among young players and fans.
The meeting was attended by Ranchi Municipal Commissioner Sushant Gaurav, Sports Director Chhavi Ranjan, Army Nodal Officer Colonel Hem Chandra, Major Anand, Executive Engineer of the Energy Department Jayakant Kumar, Civil Surgeon Dr Prabhat Kumar, City Superintendent of Police Rakesh Singh, officials of the Jharkhand State Sports Authority, and senior officers from various departments and the district administration.
