Bilaspur, India |South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) on Tuesday hosted the grand inauguration of the Coal India Inter-Company Hockey Tournament 2025–26 at the Late Shri B.R. Yadav International Hockey Stadium, Bahtarai, marking the return of the prestigious event to SECL after nearly ten years.
The four-day tournament, scheduled from February 4 to February 7, features eight teams representing Coal India Limited’s subsidiary companies and is being played at the Astro Turf Ground of Bahtarai Stadium. The opening ceremony showcased high energy, discipline, and a strong spirit of sportsmanship.
The event was inaugurated by Director (Human Resources) Biranchi Das, who attended as the Chief Guest. Director (Finance) D. Sunil Kumar and Chief Vigilance Officer Himanshu Jain were present as Special Guests. Several senior officials, representatives of labor unions, members of the SECL Welfare Board, Hockey Bilaspur officials, and a large number of employees were also in attendance.
The ceremony began with a ceremonial march-past by all participating teams, followed by a symbolic goal scored by the dignitaries to formally declare the tournament open. The guests later interacted with the players and extended their best wishes.
Addressing the gathering, Director (HR) Biranchi Das said that sports play a vital role in fostering unity and positive energy within organizations, adding that the tournament reflects coordination and camaraderie across the Coal India family.
The inauguration featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Bhangra, a welcome song by SECL employees, and colorful Chhattisgarhi folk dances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Teams participating in the tournament include SECL, ECL, NCL, BCCL, CCL, WCL, MCL, and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) from Telangana.
On the opening day, several matches were played with the following results:
- SECL defeated ECL 8–0
- NCL defeated BCCL 4–1
- CCL defeated SCCL 3–1
- MCL defeated WCL 1–0
- SECL defeated BCCL 6–0
- NCL defeated ECL 4–0
The tournament is expected to witness intense competition and high-quality hockey as teams vie for the championship title over the next three days.