VENDA Cup 2026: Football Tournament Against Drug Abuse Kicks Off in Kerala
Kerala Home Minister inaugurated the ninth VENDA Cup, a statewide inter-school football tournament promoting a drug-free environment.
Thiruvananthapuram witnessed the launch of the ninth edition of the VENDA Cup 2026, an inter-school football tournament themed 'Game for S.A.F.E.' (Substance Abuse-Free Environment), on Tuesday. The event, organized by Allianz Services India, was inaugurated by Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala at the Jimmy George Sports Hub.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Chennithala highlighted the tournament's significant contribution to Operation Toofan, the state's anti-drug initiative. He expressed confidence that with collective efforts, Kerala can achieve its goal of becoming a drug-free state.
Sports Minister O.J. Janeesh emphasized that eradicating substance abuse requires more than legal measures; it demands parallel awareness campaigns. He stressed the vital role of sports in this endeavor, noting that while it is important to say 'No' to drugs, equal importance lies in creating opportunities for youth to say 'Yes' to sports. He advocated for engaging young people in tournaments like the VENDA Cup to nurture their talents and help them become future sports personalities.
The VENDA Cup 2026 is recognized as the state's largest inter-school football tournament against drug abuse. This year's edition features 1,600 players representing 160 school teams from all 14 districts of Kerala. The teams are divided into four zones based in Kannur, Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram, and Ernakulam. Zonal qualifiers are scheduled for September and October, with the state championships set to take place on October 23 and 24 in Ernakulam.