Poonch, Nov 6: The Krishna Ghati Premier League (KGPL), an initiative of the Indian Army's Krishna Ghati Brigade, has emerged as a major sporting platform in the border district of Poonch, promoting youth empowerment, national integration and stronger Civil–Military relations.
The tournament, which began in 2024 with 32 teams, has expanded to 48 teams in its ongoing third edition, reflecting its growing popularity and appeal among local and outside-state players.
Being organised from October 31 to November 21 at Jhullas Ground, KGPL 2026 witnessed the presence of Major General Manoj Kumar Ruria, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Ace of Spades Division (25 Infantry Division), Brigadier Amit, Commander, Krishna Ghati Brigade, and Colonel Rohit Saxena, Commanding Officer.
Addressing the players and spectators, Major General Ruria appreciated the Krishna Ghati Brigade for organising the league and highlighted the role of sports in channelising youthful energy towards constructive activities.
He said sports promote discipline, teamwork, leadership, mutual respect and camaraderie, besides providing talented youngsters from border areas an opportunity to showcase their abilities and interact with players from different parts of the country.
The GOC also stressed the importance of keeping youth away from drug abuse by encouraging greater participation in sports and other productive activities. He appreciated the enthusiastic response of local residents and reaffirmed the Army's commitment to strengthening ties with the civilian population.
The inaugural edition in 2024 saw 32 teams participate, with LoC Club emerging as champions. The tournament reportedly generated around 12 crore views on social media platforms.
In 2025, the second edition featured 26 teams, with LoC Club successfully defending its title. The event reportedly garnered nearly 14 crore views.
The ongoing third edition has registered its highest-ever participation, with 48 teams, including players from different states and local cricketing talent. The tournament is expected to generate around 16 crore social media views.
The winning team will receive ₹4 lakh and a trophy, while the runners-up will get ₹2 lakh and the third-place team ₹1 lakh. Individual awards include Man of the Match in every game, Man of the Series, Best Batsman and Best Bowler.
Beyond cricket, KGPL has developed into a platform for community participation and meaningful interaction between the Army and civilians. The initiative brings together the Army, civil administration, Department of Youth Services and Sports, local sports organisations, volunteers and residents around a common sporting cause.
The enthusiastic participation of people from Jhullas, Krishna Ghati, Poonch and adjoining areas has remained a major feature of the tournament. Its growing digital reach has also helped showcase the sporting talent and positive image of the border region.
The organisers expressed gratitude to the senior Army leadership, particularly Major General Ruria and Brigadier Amit, for their encouragement and support. They also acknowledged the contribution of the district administration, sports authorities, participating teams, volunteers and local residents.
From 32 teams in 2024 to 48 in 2026, KGPL's journey reflects the growing role of sports in bringing communities together. The league stands as an example of how sporting initiatives can nurture talent, discourage drug abuse, promote national integration and strengthen trust between the Army and the people in border areas.
As the third edition progresses, excitement continues to build around the championship, with KGPL reinforcing its identity as more than a cricket tournament — a platform for unity, opportunity and togetherness.
