Gokulam Kerala FC claims victory in Climate Cup 2024

By Reach Ladakh Correspondent Leh, Sep 08, 2024
Leh :
Gokulam Kerala FC emerged victorious in the Climate Cup Football Tournament 2024, defeating J&K Bank FC with a 4-0 scoreline. The final match took place on September 7 at the Astroturf Open Stadium, Spituk. Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), attended the final and extended his congratulations to the winning and runner-up teams, as well as all the participating teams. He expressed his appreciation to the Chairman of LAHDC Leh and the organizers for successfully conducting the tournament. The Lt. Governor lauded the initiative to name the event the ‘Climate Cup,’ highlighting its role in raising environmental awareness through sports. He reiterated his commitment to environmental conservation, mentioning his personal efforts, including planting approximately 1,000 trees around Raj Niwas in Leh to combat climate change. He encouraged the people of Ladakh to actively participate in climate preservation and affirmed his dedication to protecting the region’s delicate ecology. The Lt. Governor also announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved a 13 GW solar power project for Ladakh, aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and economic growth in the region. He discussed his consultations with experts about cultivating fodder around the solar power plant and their positive feedback on the feasibility of such agricultural practices. He highlighted that this project would provide additional resources and support renewable energy development in Ladakh. Emphasizing the importance of sports for mental and physical well-being, the Lt. Governor encouraged Ladakhi youth to engage in sports and participate in tournaments. He urged the football community and the Chairman/CEC of LAHDC Leh to strive for the Ladakh team’s advancement to the final in future tournaments. He expressed hope that Ladakh’s team would compete in the final next year and assured that the UT Administration would provide necessary support. At the conclusion of the event, the Lt. Governor and other dignitaries presented awards to the winning and runner-up teams. Gokulam Kerala FC received a cheque for Rs 2.50 lakhs and a special Climate Cup crafted with Ladakhi woodcarving techniques, while J&K Bank FC was awarded Rs 1.50 lakhs. The tournament featured six teams—Gokulam Kerala FC, North East United FC, Ladakh FC, Tibetan National Team, J&K Bank FC, and Skalzaling FC—providing a platform for players to showcase their skills and promote environmental responsibility.