TP REPORT
PESHAWAR: The All Pakistan DOSTAN Football League will begin on April 5 at Qayyum Sports Complex, Peshawar, under the auspices of the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A total of 17 teams from across the country will participate in the league.
This was stated by Advisor to the Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Taj Mohammad Khan Tarand, while talking to the media. Director General Sports Tashfeen Haider and Organizing Secretary Sajid Khan were also present on the occasion.
Taj Mohammad Khan Tarand said that the provincial government is taking practical steps to promote sports, engage youth in positive activities, and bring forward hidden talent. He added that the All Pakistan DOSTAN Football League is part of these efforts and will provide a strong platform for players at both provincial and national levels.
He further stated that 17 teams from across the country are participating in the league, including four teams from Balochistan. Various departmental teams such as Pakistan Police, PEPO Islamabad, and Atish Dostan (Ex) are also part of the competition. In addition, a special FATA team has been included to provide opportunities to players from merged districts.
Tarand termed the participation of more than 100 players from merged districts (former FATA) as encouraging, saying it reflects the immense talent present in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the government is committed to nurturing it.
He added that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is focusing on improving sports infrastructure, constructing new grounds, and providing financial and technical support to players to promote healthy activities among youth.
He also informed that the football ground and tartan track at Qayyum Sports Complex have been completed, and the formal inauguration will be carried out by Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Khan Afridi.
Regarding the league, he announced that the winning team will receive a cash prize of PKR 500,000, while the runner-up will be awarded PKR 300,000 to encourage competition and motivate players.
In conclusion, he said that such activities not only promote sports but also help project a positive image of the province.
