Namkum | January 13, 2026
A new football ground was inaugurated at Ulidih village under Hahap Panchayat of Namkum block, bringing joy and enthusiasm among local residents. The ground has been developed with the support of Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Pradeep Verma and BJP Khijri Mandal President Ashok Munda. The inauguration ceremony was led by Ashok Munda, who is also the Principal General Secretary of the Central Sarna Committee.
On the occasion, a two-day football tournament was also formally inaugurated. Addressing the gathering, Ashok Munda said that the villagers of Ulidih had identified the land for a playground long ago, but due to a lack of financial resources, the construction could not be undertaken. The villagers had been demanding a football ground for a long time, which was later brought to the notice of Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Pradeep Verma. Acting on his directions, the ground was levelled and developed into a proper football field.
He added that a playground is not limited to sports activities alone but also plays an important role in instilling discipline, teamwork and a positive outlook among the youth. With the construction of the ground, local players will no longer have to depend on neighbouring villages for practice and competitions.
The inauguration of the football ground generated significant excitement among villagers. Locals said that children of the village will now be able to hone their sporting skills locally, and the ground will also serve as a venue for future sports and social events.
Organisers informed that the final match of the football tournament will be played on January 15 on the occasion of the Tusu Mela, adding to the enthusiasm among players and spectators.
The event was attended by Samir Rai, Sandeep Mandal, Ramesh Munda, Shilash Tuti, Mangal Tuti, Avinash Tuti, Johnson Tuti, Ganpat Munda, Pandu Munda, Sandeep Tuti, Prem Munda, Rakesh Munda, Madan Toppo, Suryakant Munda, along with a large number of villagers and sports enthusiasts.
