Srinagar, Oct 13 (KINS): The North Kashmir Football Premier League 2025, organized annually by the Bandipora Rashtriya Rifles in memory of Maj Gopi Singh Rathore, Shaurya Chakra, concluded today with great enthusiasm and a strong display of sportsmanship.
Over the past two decades, the tournament has evolved into one of North Kashmir’s most prestigious sporting events, reflecting the region’s deep passion for football. Owing to its growing popularity, this year’s edition was conducted in two phases to cover the entire North Kashmir region.
The competition witnessed participation from 32 teams — the highest in the league’s history — representing areas including Manasbal, Pohrupeth, Charkot, and Pattan. The top two teams from each sector advanced to the final phase, which drew large crowds of local spectators and created a festive sporting atmosphere across the district.
The grand finale, held at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, Bandipora, featured a thrilling contest between Hyderbeigh FC Yadipora and Meetu Football Club. The match was witnessed by a spirited crowd of over 3,000 spectators, who cheered passionately for their teams, turning the venue into a vibrant celebration of football.
The final was graced by the presence of the General Officer Commanding, CIF (K), along with senior officers from the District Administration, J&K Police, and CRPF. Throughout the tournament, players displayed remarkable discipline, stamina, and sportsmanship, while the massive turnout reaffirmed Bandipora’s reputation as the cradle of sports in Kashmir Valley.
The North Kashmir Football Premier League serves as a platform to identify and nurture young football talent, promote team spirit, and strengthen social harmony among local youth. Beyond sports, the initiative continues to foster goodwill and trust between the local population and the Indian Army, reflecting the Army’s sustained commitment to community development and youth engagement through sports.
The 2025 edition of the tournament will be remembered as a landmark celebration of unity, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship, paying a befitting tribute to the legacy of Maj Gopi Singh Rathore, Shaurya Chakra.(KINS)
