The second day of the state-level tribal sports competition, organized by Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra at JRD Tata Sports Complex, witnessed an exhilarating football final between Bokaro and Seraikela. Emerging victorious, Bokaro's football team clinched the championship title. Earlier, the semifinals saw intense matches between Seraikela and Chatra, and Bokaro and East Singhbhum. Teams from various districts of Jharkhand participated in the tournament.
As the state-level champions, Bokaro's football team will represent Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra, Jharkhand, at the 24th National Tribal Sports Meet to be held in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, from December 28 to 31. This national event will witness participation from states across India, including northeastern regions and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Tribal players from Nepal will also compete in this prestigious tournament.
The closing ceremony featured former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Shri Arjun Munda, as the chief guest, along with the Vice-Chancellor of Jamshedpur Women’s University, Prof. (Dr.) Anjila Gupta, as the distinguished guest. Both dignitaries presented trophies, medals, and certificates to the winner and runner-up teams while extending their best wishes to the players for a bright future.
Other notable guests included Regional Organization Minister of Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra, Vinod Upadhyay; international handball coach and Tata Steel Sports Division Manager, Dr. Hasan Imam Malik; and ASIA President, Inder Agarwal. Individual awards were distributed to Amit Maji of Seraikela for Best Goalkeeper, Gurupura Hembram of Seraikela for Best Scorer, and Dharmveer Soren of Bokaro for Best Player, along with trophies and cash prizes. Referees were honored with trophies and shawls by Regional Co-Organization Minister, Shri Prafull Akant.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Arjun Munda emphasized the abundance of sports talent in Jharkhand, stating, “There is no shortage of talent in Jharkhand; what is needed is the right platform. The Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra is making commendable efforts at the national level to identify and nurture tribal talents from remote villages. If players remain dedicated and persevere, they will undoubtedly excel and bring pride to their state and country.” He extended his heartfelt wishes to all the players.
Prof. (Dr.) Anjila Gupta, Vinod Upadhyay, Dr. Hasan Imam Malik, and Inder Agarwal also motivated the participants and conveyed their best wishes.
The event was coordinated by program convenor Sura Birouli, with a vote of thanks delivered by State Minister Vineet Kumar.
The ceremony was graced by prominent members of the Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra, including Regional Organization Minister Devnandan Singh, Co-Organization Minister Sushil Marandi, Doman Chandra Mahato, Amitabh Senapati, Rohit Kumar, Ruby Gautam, Ramnath Singh, Bhattu Mandi, and many other dedicated volunteers.
