Siliguri Footballer Pasang Dorjee Tamang: The footballing heartland of Siliguri is rejoicing. Young striker Pasang Dorjee Tamang, one of the most promising talents to emerge from the Himalayan foothills, has earned a call-up to the Indian national football team, marking a breakthrough moment for both the player and the region.
Pasang’s inclusion is being celebrated not just as a personal triumph but as a testament to the growing football culture in North Bengal—a region known for producing disciplined, passionate athletes who have often gone under-recognized at the national level. His journey from the local grounds of Siliguri to the country’s top footballing stage has captured the imagination of fans, coaches, and young aspirants across the district.
1. Early Journey: From Siliguri’s Fields to the National Camp
Born and raised in Siliguri, Darjeeling district, Pasang Dorjee Tamang’s football journey began in the narrow, dusty fields of Darjeeling Hills Football Academy. His parents, both school employees, encouraged him to balance academics with sports, but his commitment to football soon became evident.
At the age of 10, Pasang joined a local youth club, where his striking abilities quickly drew attention. Coaches remember his “unusual calmness in front of goal” and “team-oriented attitude,” qualities rare in junior players.
He rose through district-level tournaments, earning spots in under-16 and under-19 state selections. His performances at the Subroto Cup and Santosh Trophy qualifiers marked him as one of Bengal’s brightest prospects.
“Pasang was always disciplined, both on and off the field. He would train for hours and never lose focus,” said his first coach, Rabin Lama, who runs the Himalayan Youth Football Club in Siliguri.
2. The Breakthrough: National Recognition
Pasang’s consistent showing in the I-League 2 and Santosh Trophy 2024–25 season brought him to the attention of All India Football Federation (AIFF) scouts. The selectors were reportedly impressed by his ball control, pace, and composure under pressure.
In September 2025, the AIFF selection committee confirmed his inclusion in the provisional national training squad, preparing for upcoming South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup fixtures.
This marks the first time in nearly a decade that a player from Siliguri’s local circuit has been called up for the national senior setup.
“It’s a proud moment for North Bengal. Pasang’s achievement will inspire hundreds of young players,” said Subrata Dutta, senior vice-president of the AIFF.
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3. Community Celebration in Siliguri
As news of Pasang’s selection spread, the lanes of Hyderpara, his home locality, erupted in joy. Neighbours decorated his home with marigold garlands, while his family organized a small prayer ceremony to thank local mentors.
Local football associations and school clubs in Siliguri are planning a felicitation ceremony once Pasang returns from the national camp.
“We watched him grow up. Seeing his name in the India list brought tears to our eyes,” said Anita Tamang, a neighbour who knew the family since Pasang’s childhood.
The Siliguri Mahakuma Krira Parishad (SMKP) has also announced plans to name a youth football event after him to inspire future generations.
4. The Significance of Pasang’s Selection for North Bengal
For decades, North Bengal has been a fertile ground for football, but opportunities for national exposure have been limited. Despite strong participation in school and club tournaments, infrastructural challenges and lack of scouting networks have hindered players from reaching the highest levels.
Pasang’s breakthrough thus holds symbolic weight—it demonstrates that grassroots development, if properly nurtured, can yield national-level players.
The West Bengal Football Association (WBFA) has welcomed the news, describing it as a “turning point for the northern region’s football identity.”
“Football in Bengal has always been dominated by Kolkata’s clubs. Pasang’s success reminds us that Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and Darjeeling have immense untapped potential,” said WBFA general secretary Anirban Dutta.
5. Training and Mentorship: The Role of Local Academies
Behind Pasang’s rise stands a dedicated ecosystem of local clubs, coaches, and academies. The Darjeeling Hills Football Academy, Himalayan United FC, and Siliguri District Sports Association have played crucial roles in providing young players with structured training and exposure.
“We trained Pasang in all positions initially—midfield, winger, striker—to help him understand the game holistically,” said coach Lama. “When he shifted focus to attacking play, he was unstoppable.”
His mentors recall how Pasang spent extra hours working on his finishing and fitness. Despite limited facilities, he would often travel to Kanchenjunga Stadium to practice shooting drills under floodlights.
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6. The Emotional Journey: Family and Support System
Pasang credits his parents and community for unwavering support. His father, Dorjee Tamang, a school accountant, often worked extra shifts to fund his son’s boots and travel expenses for tournaments.
“There were times we couldn’t afford to buy proper shoes. But we knew he had talent. Every sacrifice was worth it,” Dorjee said, smiling with pride.
His mother, Lhamu Tamang, managed his diet and studies, ensuring he maintained academic discipline alongside sports. The family’s modest home now showcases framed photographs of Pasang’s matches, medals, and newspaper clippings.
7. Siliguri Footballer Pasang Dorjee Tamang: Reaction from Football Circles
Several former players and coaches across India have lauded Pasang’s achievement, viewing it as proof that Indian football is expanding beyond metropolitan strongholds.
Former India midfielder Climax Lawrence said, “It’s encouraging to see representation from regions like North Bengal. Diversity strengthens our football culture.”
The AIFF Technical Committee has hinted that players like Pasang will form the “next generation core” for future international tournaments.
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8. Pasang’s Playing Style and Strengths
Pasang is known for his agility, low centre of gravity, and intelligent positional sense. Coaches describe him as a “press-resistant forward” who adapts quickly to tactical changes.
His preferred position is centre-forward, but he can operate as a false nine or attacking midfielder when required. Analysts have compared his movement to that of Sunil Chhetri in his early years.
“Pasang has the ability to read the opponent’s line and exploit small gaps,” noted AIFF coach Renu Bala Singh. “He’s a modern striker with creativity and discipline.”
9. Siliguri’s Football Legacy
Siliguri has a rich sporting tradition, having produced several national-level athletes in football, athletics, and cricket. Players like Bidesh Bose and Nagen Tamang laid the foundation for the region’s football credibility.
Local tournaments such as the Kanchenjunga Gold Cup have served as breeding grounds for young talent. However, despite passionate local participation, few have broken through to the national stage in recent years—making Pasang’s success especially noteworthy.
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10. Reaction from Siliguri Administration and Schools
The Siliguri Municipal Corporation and local educational institutions have extended congratulations. The Siliguri Boys’ High School, where Pasang studied, has announced plans to felicitate him upon his return.
“He is the pride of our school and the entire town. We will host a reception in his honour,” said headmaster B. C. Pradhan.
District authorities have indicated they will recommend Pasang for the Bengal Youth Achievement Award.
11. Future Prospects: Road to International Matches
Following his inclusion in the India camp, Pasang is expected to participate in upcoming SAFF Cup qualifiers and Asian Games trials. If selected for the final squad, he could debut for India within months—an extraordinary leap from district football to international play.
“I will give my 100%. Representing India is a dream I’ve worked toward since childhood,” Pasang said in a statement shared through his academy.
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12. Challenges Ahead
While Pasang’s rise is inspirational, he faces immense pressure to perform at the highest level. Transitioning from domestic leagues to international football demands physical and mental adjustment.
Former AIFF fitness coach Danny De Costa emphasised that consistent mentorship and injury management will be key to sustaining his progress.
13. The Larger Picture: Youth Football in Bengal
Experts believe Pasang’s selection could catalyse renewed focus on youth football infrastructure in North Bengal. Grassroots initiatives like Khelo India, Mission XI Million, and state-level academies may now receive more attention and funding.
“We hope the government leverages this moment to upgrade Siliguri’s sports infrastructure,” said sports activist Pradeep Gurung.
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14. Inspiration for the Next Generation
Local clubs are already seeing a surge in enrolment inquiries. Coaches report that young players now aspire to “be like Pasang,” proving that local heroes can transform community morale more effectively than institutional campaigns.
“Pasang’s success shows that dreams can come true even from small towns,” said 14-year-old player Rinchen Lama during a practice session at Kanchenjunga Ground.
15. Conclusion: A New Dawn for Siliguri Football
As Siliguri prepares to welcome home its newest national hero, the region stands at a symbolic crossroads. Pasang Dorjee Tamang’s story represents far more than personal triumph—it embodies the spirit of North Bengal, the perseverance of grassroots athletes, and the transformative power of local support systems.
If nurtured well, his success could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Indian football, where players from every corner of the country find equal footing on the national stage.
For now, Siliguri beams with pride, its streets buzzing with chants and applause for a young footballer who carried the dreams of a town and turned them into national achievement.
External Reference Links
- All India Football Federation – Official Website
- Khelo India – Sports Development Programme
- Sports Authority of India
- Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
- SAFF Championship – Official Website
- India National Football Team – Wikipedia
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