Kashmir United FC Triumphs in 45th Mohan Kumar Mangalam (MKM) Football Tournament in Zawar, Rajasthan
Udaipur, January 27, 2025: The 45th edition of the prestigious Mohan Kumar Mangalam (MKM) Football Tournament concluded today in Zawar, Rajasthan, with Kashmir United FC clinching the championship by defeating Hindustan Zinc XI in a thrilling 2-1 finale. Hosted at the iconic MKM Stadium in Zinc City – Udaipur, this much-anticipated 10-day tournament brought together 12 top-tier teams from across India, showcasing a blend of youthful vigor and footballing excellence.
The tournament’s grand finale was graced by an esteemed lineup of dignitaries, including Mr. Dileep Singh Shekhawat from the Regional Football Association, Mr. Shakeel Ahmed from the District Football Association, Mr. Rajesh Yadav, Superintendent of Police, Salumber, and Mr. Ram Murari, IBU-CEO of Zawar. Also in attendance were key figures such as Mr. Abhimanyu Singh Ranawat, MKM Steering Committee Secretary, Mr. Deepak Gakhreja, MKM Coordinator, Mr. Lalu Ram Meena, Organizing Committee Secretary, and renowned football administrators Mr. Naga Ram Kharadi, Mr. Subroto Das, and Mr. CT Premnath.
A Celebration of Football Legacy and Talent
The MKM Football Tournament, organized by Hindustan Zinc in collaboration with the Zawar Mines Mazdoor Sangh, has long been a cornerstone of Indian grassroots football. This year’s event underscored the rich footballing heritage of Zawar, a region deeply connected to the sport since Hindustan Zinc established its football stadium in 1976. Over the decades, the tournament has grown into a symbol of community engagement, fostering local pride and camaraderie.
Inaugurating the event, Chief Guest Mohammad Akbar, a celebrated former Indian footballer, praised the electrifying atmosphere at the stadium. “The enthusiasm for football in Udaipur rivals that of Bengal’s legendary crowds. The passion exhibited here brings back memories of my playing days, with the stands packed to capacity,” he remarked. Akbar lauded Hindustan Zinc for creating a platform that nurtures emerging talent and strengthens the sport in rural Rajasthan.
The Teams and the Fierce Competition
This year’s tournament featured an impressive roster of teams, including Hindustan Zinc XI, Kashmir United FC, Doon Star FC Dehradun, KMSWC Football Club Manipur, DFA Udaipur, Ram Mohammad Singh Azad FC Punjab, YBFC Maharashtra, and RT Boys Club Hyderabad, among others. The matches displayed a high level of skill and determination, captivating football enthusiasts from across the region.
The final match, pitting Hindustan Zinc XI against Kashmir United FC, was a nail-biter from start to finish. Kashmir United FC secured their victory with a decisive 2-1 scoreline, showcasing exceptional teamwork and resilience. Hindustan Zinc XI, composed of talented players from the Zinc Football Academy, put up a valiant fight, demonstrating their commitment to the game and their home turf.
Zinc Football Academy: A Hub for Emerging Talent
The Zinc Football Academy, operated by Hindustan Zinc, played a pivotal role in this year’s tournament. Accredited with the Elite 3-Star Rating by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the academy has established itself as a premier institution for nurturing young talent. It has produced players such as Sahil Poonia, Mohammed Kaif, and Prem Hansdak, who have represented India on the global stage.
Established in 2018, the academy provides state-of-the-art facilities, including world-class training grounds, coaching by certified professionals, and exposure to national and international tournaments. The academy’s focus on grassroots development aligns with Hindustan Zinc’s vision of fostering excellence in sports while empowering local communities.
Zawar: Rajasthan’s Footballing Heartland
The footballing heritage of Zawar is integral to Rajasthan’s sports narrative. Over the years, the region has produced numerous skilled players who have made significant contributions to Indian football. The MKM Football Tournament serves as a testament to Zawar’s enduring love for the sport, bringing together communities and reinforcing the area’s reputation as a hub for footballing talent.
The tournament also underscores Hindustan Zinc’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. For nearly five decades, the company has been a staunch supporter of sports in the region, using events like the MKM Tournament to inspire future generations and build stronger community bonds.
Hindustan Zinc: A Leader in Sustainability and Sports Promotion
As a subsidiary of the Vedanta Group, Hindustan Zinc is not only a global leader in zinc production but also a pioneer in sustainability and community development. Recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024, Hindustan Zinc continues to lead with its innovative practices and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives.
The company’s efforts to promote sports, particularly football, align with its broader mission to empower local communities. By hosting large-scale tournaments like the MKM Football Tournament, Hindustan Zinc provides a platform for grassroots talent to shine while fostering a sense of pride and unity among participants and spectators.
