44th MKM Football Tournament to Kick Off in Javar

Javar, The 44th edition of the MKM Football Tournament, organized by Hindustan Zinc and Mine Workers Union, is set to commence on January 20 at the Javar Football Stadium near Zinc City, Udaipur. This grand 10-day tournament will witness the participation of 12 teams from across the country.

The inaugural ceremony will feature prominent guests, including renowned Indian footballer Climax Lawrence and Dilip Singh Shekhawat, President of the Rajasthan Football Association. The event will also be attended by Shakeel Ahmad, President of the District Football Association, and Arun Mishra, Chief Executive Officer of Hindustan Zinc. Notable figures like Ram Murari, CEO of Hindustan Zinc's IBU, and Lalu Ram Meena, Secretary of the Mines Workers Union, Javar Mines, along with Deepak Gakhreza, Secretary of the MKM Tournament, will grace the occasion.

Hindustan Zinc, in collaboration with the Mine Workers Union, will host this 10-day tournament, which has evolved to become one of the largest state-level football competitions in the country. Teams from Rajasthan, including Rajasthan Police and D.F.A. Udaipur, will compete alongside renowned teams from across India such as Shimla Young FC, Round Glass FC Punjab, Central Bank of India Mumbai, Artillery Centre Hyderabad, NFA Neemuch, Doon Star FC Dehradun, BSF Siliguri, ARAE Football Club Gujarat, and Aryax Super Ban FC Kolkata.

Hindustan Zinc has been actively contributing to the development of sports for nearly four decades and has played a pivotal role in promoting and nurturing players. The company constructed the Javar Football Stadium in Rajasthan in 1976. The MKM Tournament serves as a significant platform, encouraging community participation and engagement. The tournament has become a showcase of unity and active involvement across all segments of the community.

A Unique History of the All India MKM Football Tournament

The All India MKM Football Tournament, initiated in 1976 in memory of the late Shri Mohan Kumaramangalam, the former Union Minister of Steel and Mines, has completed its journey through 43 editions. The 44th edition is scheduled from January 20 to 29, 2024. Team selections are made through nominations and mutual consent among various teams. Notably, the tournament, despite being held in a tribal region, attracts active participation from all sections of the community.

A Unique Example of Community Engagement

This tournament has proven to be a crucial medium for dialogue with local communities and a vital showcase for community engagement. The MKM Football Tournament stands out as a unique event that brings together all segments of Hindustan Zinc – employees, communities, and stakeholders. Witnessing the active participation of workers' children inspires a sense of representation as they proudly represent Hindustan Zinc, fostering a spirit of inclusivity. With a record attendance of over 15,000 spectators, the tournament continues to grow, reflecting the unique bond between Hindustan Zinc and its diverse community.