Tripura Gears Up for the 73rd BN Mullik Memorial All India Police Football Championship
Agartala, Feb 21, 2025, By Our Correspondent96
A Celebration of Sportsmanship, Unity, and Rivalry
As the cool February breeze sweeps across Tripura, the state is preparing to host one of the most prestigious police sporting events in the country—the 73rd BN Mullik Memorial All India Police Football Championship. Starting February 24 and continuing until March 7, the championship is set to bring together some of the finest footballing talents from police forces across India, making it a grand spectacle of skill, teamwork, and camaraderie.
For the first time, Tripura is hosting this high-profile tournament at the senior level, and the enthusiasm is palpable. The state police, along with various government departments and local communities, have worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s smooth execution. According to Director General of Police (DGP) Amitabh Ranjan, preparations are almost complete, and the stage is set for an electrifying showdown.
The Battle Begins: 45 Teams, 1 Champion
A total of 45 teams—comprising 36 men’s and 9 women’s teams—will vie for glory in this edition of the championship. With participation from 25 states, 4 Union Territories, and 7 central armed forces, the tournament promises an intense display of talent, tactics, and sheer determination. Approximately 1,500 footballers will lace up their boots, each carrying the pride of their respective forces, the Police Chief said in a press conference at the Tripura Police Headquarters.
As the teams arrive in Agartala, the buzz around the city grows. By this evening, 31 teams had already reached the state capital, with the remaining expected to arrive by tomorrow. The opening ceremony, to be held at Umakanta Stadium at 9:30 AM on February 24, will be graced by Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, who will officially inaugurate the event.
Football Fever Across Tripura
Unlike previous editions that were often confined to a single venue, this year’s tournament will be spread across five astro-turf football grounds in Agartala, Jirania, Mohanpur, Jampuijala, and Udaipur. The matches, played in a league-cum-knockout format, will total 102 games—with 81 men’s matches and 21 women’s matches. Several of these matches will be held under floodlights, adding to the excitement.
The defending champions, Mizoram, will kick off the tournament in a thrilling clash against Uttar Pradesh in the inaugural match. With national and international-level players among the ranks, fans can expect high-octane football throughout the competition, Ranjan said.
Beyond the Game: A Brotherhood Strengthened
Ranjan maintained that the championship is more than just a contest for trophies and is a celebration of unity and sportsmanship. As DGP Amitabh Ranjan pointed out, events like these foster brotherhood among police forces across the country, building relationships beyond the field. With 40 referees officiating the games, the tournament is set to uphold the highest standards of fairness and competition.
The championship is open to all, and sports enthusiasts have been urged to witness the action live. As Tripura takes center stage in the world of police football, the spirit of the game, the thrill of competition, and the bonds of friendship will shine brighter than ever.
For football lovers, this is more than just a tournament—it’s a festival of passion, perseverance, and pride.