Kolkata, 27th November: The Madan Mohan Halder Challenge Shield football tournament, one of the most eagerly awaited sporting events in Birbhum, is back with another thrilling edition. The tournament, founded by the Ahmodpur Players Association in 1990, has become one of the most celebrated events in the region, attracting teams from across West Bengal. As part of its commitment to inclusivity, the event will also highlight an all-women’s charity football match, showcasing the Ahmodpur Players Association’s dedication to fostering women’s football across West Bengal.
The Madan Mohan Halder Challenge Shield has evolved significantly since its early days, growing from an initial budget of INR 5,000, and the Ahmedpur Players Association is also celebrating its fiftieth year in 2024. The participation of teams from various districts highlights the event’s regional influence, and its impact extends beyond the field, bringing local communities together in celebration of sport. The tournament’s unique blend of competitive football, community involvement, and gender inclusivity has made it a major event in the local calendar.
The Madan Mohan Halder Challenge Shield will feature eight teams from districts including Murshidabad, Durgapur, Birbhum, and Kolkata, competing in a knockout format over three days. The tournament continues to serve as an important platform for young football players aged 17-20, promoting both fitness and a passion for the sport.
The tournament attracts local dignitaries, including Members of Parliament, Members of Legislative Assembly, and notable Indian football veterans like Subrata Bhattacharya and Bhaskar Ganguly, who attend to show their support the players. This year, Mr Sujon Pande, B.D.O, Sainthia Block, Birbhum, Mr. Mahadeb Dutta, Ex Player and Social Worker, Mr. Prasanta Sadhu, Sabhapati, Sainthia Panchayet Samiti, Mr. Somanath Sadhu, Ex-Sabhapati, Sainthia Panchayat Samiti, Mr. Rajendra Nath Chandra, UPO-Prodhan, Ahmodpur G.P. are present at the opening ceremony and encouraged the local schools, colleges, and youth clubs, fostering a sense of excitement and pride in the region.
Halder Venture Limited is associated for the 10th consecutive year; the tournament is not only a celebration of football but also a testament to the company’s 100-year legacy of community involvement. Speaking about the event, Mr. Prabhat Kumar Halder, Chairman of Halder Venture Limited, said “At Halder Venture Limited, we believe that sports are essential for building strong, healthy communities. The Madan Mohan Halder Challenge Shield is about more than just football; it’s about inspiring the youth of Birbhum to embrace fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. As we celebrate our centenary, we are proud to associate with this event, which not only honors my father’s legacy but also encourages young people to pursue their passions on and off the field.”
The tournament, named in honor of Mr. Madan Mohan Halder, a beloved figure in the community, reflects the company’s long-standing partnership rooted in emotional ties to the region. Halder Venture Limited’s association is integral to the success and growth of the tournament, helping it expand its reach beyond the boundaries of Birbhum and bring attention to the incredible football talent in the district. Halder Venture Limited remains deeply committed to supporting initiatives that benefit the local community. The Madan Mohan Halder Challenge Shield is just one example of its ongoing efforts to give back to the people who have supported its growth over the past 100 years.
For more information, please visit https://halderventure.in/ or contact Subhajit Banerjee at subhajit@halderventure.in.
About Halder Venture Limited
Halder Venture Limited, a leading rice and edible oil manufacturing company with a legacy dating back to 1924 continues its mission of ‘Growing Goodness’ in communities worldwide. Originated from B.C. Halder Rice and Oil Mills, founded by the visionary Mr. Brindaban Chandra Halder, has built a century-long heritage of excellence, responsibility, and innovation.
Driven by a vision to nurture humanity and create a well-nourished society, Halder Venture Limited’s mission is to ensure access to nutritious food to all sectors of the society. With its headquarters based in West Bengal, India, Halder Venture Limited has expanded its footprint globally, operating in countries such as Singapore, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Cameroon, Russia, and Bangladesh. The company offers a diverse range of products including Parboiled Rice, White Rice, Vietnamese Rice and Edible oils under rice brands like Bhojmoti, Bhoj, Hira, Tumi and Diva and oil brands like Odaana and Omaana. Halder Venture Limited is dedicated to promoting sustainability and social responsibility while encouraging healthier lifestyles. For further information, please visit https://halderventure.in/
