Leh: The Lt Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, today emphasised the strong commitment of UT Administration in nurturing young talent while simultaneously spreading awareness about the urgent need for climate action and sustainable development.
He underlined that Ladakh is emerging as a model region where youth empowerment goes hand in hand with ecological responsibility.
The Lt Governor was speaking as the Chief Guest at the grand finale of the Climate Cup Football Tournament 2025, held at Leh Football Stadium. On the occasion, First Lady Smt. Bindu Gupta was also present.
The event was organised by the Department of Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh, and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, in collaboration with the Ladakh Football Association and PowerGrid.
The final match was played between Rajasthan FC and Sudeva Delhi FC amid great excitement and enthusiastic support from football lovers of Ladakh. In a thrilling final, Suvedha Delhi FC edged past Rajasthan FC in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 in the regulation period.
The Lt Governor, in his address, said that the youth of Ladakh are the true torchbearers of change, and their energy, creativity, and determination are vital in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for the region. He stressed that sports not only foster discipline, teamwork, and leadership but also instill a sense of responsibility towards society and the environment. He called upon the young generation to actively participate in nation-building while keeping ecological balance at the core of their aspirations.
Underscoring the urgency of climate action, Gupta said that Ladakh, with its fragile ecosystem, stands at the frontline of global environmental challenges. He urged all stakeholders, especially the youth, to adopt sustainable practices in daily life, preserve natural resources, and contribute to a collective movement for protecting the Himalayas for future generations.
Kavinder Gupta lauded the efforts of the organizers for successfully hosting the Climate Cup, which has emerged as a symbol of youth empowerment, sporting excellence, and environmental consciousness. He said the tournament reflects Ladakh’s commitment to nurturing talent while spreading awareness about the urgent need for climate action and sustainable development.
“The Climate Cup is not merely a football tournament; it is a celebration of Ladakh’s spirit of unity, resilience, and youth power. Such platforms instil discipline, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility towards both sports and society,” the Lt Governor remarked.
This year, the Climate Cup witnessed participation from 9 football teams, including four from outside Ladakh—Sudeva FC Delhi, Rajasthan FC, FIFA AIFF Odisha, and Team Tibet.
The Lt Governor congratulated the teams for their enthusiasm and sportsmanship, especially praising the youth of Ladakh for their growing involvement in competitive sports.
On the occasion, Kavinder Gupta extended his best wishes to all players, coaches, and officials, and expressed gratitude to the Ladakh Football Association and PowerGrid for their valuable support in making the tournament a grand success. He further reaffirmed the UT Administration’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and providing greater opportunities to the youth of Ladakh.
The Lt Governor handed over the wooden-made Climate Cup and a cheque of Rs 2.5 lakhs to the winning team Suvedha Delhi FC while Rajasthan FC claimed the runners-up trophy and a cheque of Rs 1.5 lakhs.
Bharanyu Bansal from 1 Ladakh FC won the top scorer award with six goals, while Legend from Suvedha Delhi FC bagged the best goalkeeper award. Team ITBP claimed the Best Fair Play award.
Among those present during the 3rd edition of Climate Cup were Deputy Chairman, LAHDC Leh, Tsering Angchuk; Executive Councillors- Ghulam Mehdi and Stanzin Chosphel along with Councillors from LAHDC Leh; DGP Ladakh, Dr SD Singh Jamwal; Administrative Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Bhanu Prabha; Joint Director, YSS, Tahir Hussain; Directors and Head of Departments; political and religious heads; officials from Ladakh Football Association and a large number of spectators were present during the final match.
