Kabaddi for Change: Empowering Girls Through Sport in Banarhat
Banarhat, February 14: A unique initiative titled "Kabaddi for Change" was organised today at Banarhat, using sport as a medium to promote social awareness and girl child empowerment. The event was a collaborative effort by NGOs CRY, Dooars Jagran, and KAPRI.
Open to girls aged 12 to 18 years, the tournament carried powerful social messages against gender inequality, child marriage, and child labour. Five teams from the region participated enthusiastically.
In the Under-18 category, Team Phoenix emerged victorious, while Team Pankhudi claimed the title in the Under-14 category. Beyond the competition, the event served as a platform to encourage girls to take up sports and challenge societal norms. Organisers emphasised the role of such initiatives in fostering confidence and leadership among young girls, driving positive change in the community.
Gokul Rai Completes Grueling 550km ‘Royal Bengal Express’ Ultra
Dooars, JAN 30: In a remarkable feat of endurance, athlete Gokul Rai successfully completed the demanding 550km "Royal Bengal Express" ultra-marathon. The event commenced at 4:30 AM on January 24 from Bagdogra Airport and concluded at Kolkata Airport on January 25.
Rai finished the circuit in 23 hours and 50 minutes, securing an impressive fourth position overall. His achievement is highlighted by the challenging cold winter conditions, showcasing extraordinary determination and physical resilience.
The ultra-marathon tests the limits of human stamina, and Rai's performance has brought significant recognition to the region's long-distance running community. His accomplishment serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that rigorous training and mental fortitude can conquer extreme physical challenges.
Narendra Modi Cup Champions Women’s Football in Dooars
NAGARKATTA, DEC 23: In a significant push to promote women’s football, the Narendra Modi Cup - 2025 was inaugurated here today at the Grassmore Football Ground. The tournament featured eight teams representing the Nagarkatta, Malbazar, Mainaguri, Dhupguri, Rajganj, Mekhliganj, Fulbari-Dabgram, and Jalpaiguri legislative assembly seats.
The final witnessed a dominant performance from the Jalpaiguri team, which clinched the championship title by defeating Fulbari-Dabgram with a decisive 20-goal margin. Individual excellence was also celebrated, with Jhunu Rai named the “Women of the Tournament” and Sapna Rai awarded the “Highest Scorer of the Match.”
The event marks a promising step forward for developing women’s sports talent across the Dooars region.
SSB Distributes Sports Equipment to Border Area Schools Under Vibrant Village Scheme
Dooars, November 28: In a significant initiative to promote sports and youth engagement in the border region, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) distributed sports equipment to local school children at the Looksan Community Hall today.
Commandant Sanjay Tripathi presided over the distribution ceremony, which benefited students from six educational institutions: Jiti Primary School, Bhagatpur Primary School, Gathia Primary School, Looksan Nepali Junior High School, Carron Shishu Shiksha Kendra, and Carron Primary School.
The equipment, provided under the Central Government's Vibrant Village Scheme, included footballs, volleyballs, carrom boards, and other essential sports gear. The initiative aims to foster physical fitness, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle among children in remote border areas, strengthening community ties and providing constructive recreational outlets for the youth. The event was welcomed enthusiastically by students, teachers, and local residents alike.
Samsing Sports Meet 2025 Fosters Youth Spirit
A vibrant two-day sports meet, jointly organised by Samsing Jan Kalyan Sangha and Mera Yuva Bharat, concluded successfully at the Samsing HS School playground on 9th and 10th November 2025.
The inaugural day witnessed high-energy competitions including football matches and athletic events like the 100m and 200m sprints. The final day was dedicated to an exciting volleyball match. The event saw enthusiastic participation from numerous students across various schools, fostering camaraderie and a spirit of healthy competition.
The collaborative initiative was hailed for engaging the youth and promoting physical fitness within the community, marking a significant step towards nurturing local talent and sportsmanship.
Pawan Yolmo Supports Young Footballers of Madhu Tea Estate
In a commendable gesture, Pawan Yolmo of Kalchini extended his support to the youths of Madhu Tea Estate by providing football kits and jerseys to the Young Boys Football Club. Recognising the hidden sporting talent of the region, Yolmo’s initiative aims to encourage youth participation in sports and steer them away from drugs and anti-social activities.
The generous contribution was met with enthusiasm and gratitude from the local players and community members. Yolmo emphasised the importance of channeling youthful energy into positive and constructive pursuits. The initiative has inspired hope and motivation among the youth, marking a positive step toward building a healthier and more disciplined future for the region.
Jugesh Rai Distributes Sports Kits to Youths of Huntapara
In a heartwarming initiative, Jugesh Rai, along with his team members, distributed football and cricket kits to the youths of Huntapara on April 26. Demonstrating his commitment to the region’s development, Rai emphasized the importance of engaging young people in sports to promote discipline, health, and a positive lifestyle. By providing the necessary sports equipment, he aims to inspire the youth to stay focused and avoid negative influences. The event was well-received by the community, with many praising Rai’s efforts to build a healthier and more vibrant future for Huntapara’s young generation.
Jalpaiguri’s Sanghamitra Roy Wins Gold at Bengal Olympic Games
Sanghamitra Roy, a 22-year-old civic volunteer from Maynaguri, Jalpaiguri, clinched the gold medal in powerlifting at the Bengal Olympic Games held on April 9th and 10th, 2025 in Malda. Competing in the 63 kg weight category, she outperformed 63 participants from across the state, earning immense pride for her district.
Balancing her duties as a civic volunteer by day and helping run her family's grocery shop by night, Sanghamitra’s dedication to her sport never wavered. Her victory stands as a powerful testament to perseverance and passion.
Sanghamitra Roy is now more than just a gold medalist—she’s an inspiration, embodying strength, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of Jalpaiguri.
‘Khelab Maiya’ Event Promotes Sports and Social Awareness in Rangamatee
The ‘Khelab Maiya’ event was organized at the Central Dooars Rangamatee Tea Garden on 23rd March by the Kalchini Block and the Alipurduar District Administration . The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, local women, ICDS workers , and ASHA Karmis , who competed in various sports activities.
Apart from promoting sports, the event served as a platform to raise awareness about critical social issues, including child trafficking, child marriage , and child labor . The initiative successfully combined recreation with social responsibility, encouraging the community to stay informed and united against these challenges.
Bengal Open 10K 2025 to Be Held on 23rd March
The West Bengal Athletics Association , in collaboration with the Jalpaiguri District Sports Association , is set to organise the Bengal Open 10K 2025 on 23rd March . The highly anticipated event aims to promote long-distance running and encourage athletes from various regions to participate.
The competition will feature attractive cash prizes, trophies, and other rewards for the winners. It is expected to draw a large number of runners, showcasing talent and endurance. The organisers have ensured all necessary arrangements for a successful event. Enthusiastic runners and sports lovers are eagerly looking forward to this prestigious race.
Tragic Loss: Student Collapses During Marathon at UBKV
In a heartbreaking incident, Riyaz Rai, a 20-year-old first-year B.Sc. student at Uttar Banga Krishi Vidyalaya (UBKV), tragically lost his life during an 8.5 km marathon organized as part of the Vivek Utsav celebrations in Pundibari, Coochbehar.
Riyaz, a promising student from Gorubathan, Dooars, collapsed just before reaching the finish line. Despite immediate efforts to revive him, he could not be saved.
The marathon, starting at Patlakhawa and ending at the UBKV campus, was meant to be a joyous occasion but turned into a day of mourning.
Riyaz’s untimely passing has left his family, friends, and the university in deep sorrow. Heartfelt condolences are extended to his grieving loved ones.
Sports Event Organized at Historic Buxaduar Fort
A vibrant sports event was held on December 24 at the playground of the historic Buxaduar Fort, under the joint initiative of Buxa Vikash Abhiyan and CDHO Jalpaiguri. Aimed at encouraging children in the region to embrace sports, the event saw enthusiastic participation from several schools, including Buxa Board Free Pathsala, Lapchakah FB Prathmik Vidyalaya, Late Pushparaj Thapa Siksha Kendra, and Suntalabari Harkabahadur Siksha Kendra.
Adding to the excitement, 53 students and staff from Manav Bharti International School, Patna, also joined the event. A friendly match between students from Manav Bharti and local schools was a highlight of the day, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship.
Participants were recognized and awarded for their efforts, creating an atmosphere of celebration and motivation. The event concluded with cultural dance performances, showcasing the region’s rich heritage, and the distribution of mementos to esteemed guests.
Organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would inspire children to actively pursue sports while building a sense of unity and collaboration among schools. The event was a memorable occasion, blending sports, culture, and community spirit at the iconic Buxaduar Fort.