Mahbubnagar, Telangana: A total of 124 people voluntarily donated blood at a camp organised by the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) in collaboration with the Indian Red Cross Society during the Jai Prakash Narayan Trophy 2026 Senior Men’s Open Boxing Championship at Jai Prakash Narayan College of Engineering in Mahbubnagar, Telangana.

The event was organised to mark the 124th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan. The championship concluded with the felicitation of outstanding boxers, bringing together sports, social service and Indian cultural values.

The programme was held on the auspicious occasion of the first day of Navratri, which also featured Saraswati Puja and the installation of Maa Durga.

Boxers from 18 States Participate

According to IABF, 95 boxers from 18 states participated in the Jai Prakash Narayan Trophy 2026, showcasing their skills, discipline, determination and sportsmanship. The championship also saw the participation of 35 coaches and 19 referees and judges, along with college students, sports officials and boxing enthusiasts.

Seven candidates also successfully cleared the examination for referees and judges.

During the closing ceremony, outstanding performers in various categories were felicitated in recognition of their achievements.

Addressing the gathering, IABF National President Dr. Rakesh Mishra said sports are not merely a means of physical fitness and competition but also play a vital role in developing discipline, self-confidence, leadership qualities and a sense of responsibility towards the nation.

He urged young people to actively participate in social service and public welfare initiatives alongside their sporting pursuits. Appreciating the blood donors, he described voluntary blood donation as a noble humanitarian service that can save the lives of people in need.

NCC Cadets Present Guard of Honour to Dr. Rakesh Mishra

One of the highlights of the event was the Guard of Honour presented to IABF National President Dr. Rakesh Mishra by National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets.

The ceremonial honour added to the dignity of the occasion. Individuals who made notable contributions to sports and social activities were also encouraged and recognised during the programme.

The active participation of students and young people reflected their growing enthusiasm for sports and their commitment to social responsibility.

Tributes Paid to Jayaprakash Narayan and Nanaji Deshmukh

The programme also commemorated the 110th birth anniversary of Rashtrarishi Nanaji Deshmukh. Tributes were paid to both Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan and Nanaji Deshmukh for their contributions to the nation and society.

Jayaprakash Narayan played a significant role in championing democratic values and public participation, while Nanaji Deshmukh made notable contributions to rural development, social reconstruction and public service.

Their lives and ideals continue to inspire younger generations to work towards social transformation, public welfare, nation-building and democratic awareness.

The programme called upon participants to embrace the values of public service, national commitment and social responsibility exemplified by these eminent national figures.

A Confluence of Sports, Service and Nation-Building

The combination of religious observances, a blood donation camp, a national-level boxing championship, the felicitation of athletes and tributes to eminent national leaders made the Jai Prakash Narayan Trophy 2026 more than a sporting event.

The initiative highlighted how sports can help young people develop discipline, confidence and a sense of national responsibility while encouraging them to contribute to humanitarian and community welfare activities.

The participation of boxers, students, coaches, officials and local citizens added significance to the event, reinforcing the message that sports and social service can work together to promote a stronger and more responsible society.