Pune Customs House Agents Association Champions Blood Donation Awareness through Box Cricket Tournament

Pune, 13th February 2025: The Pune Customs House Agents Association (PCHAA) recently hosted a successful Box Cricket Tournament at Oasis Sports Club, NDA Road, Warje, Pune. The tournament not only provided an exciting cricketing experience but also served as a platform to raise awareness about the critical need for blood donation. By combining the thrill of the game with a noble cause, PCHAA demonstrated the power of sports in bringing about social change.

A special feature of the tournament was the requirement for each team to include at least one female player, who was tasked with batting and bowling first. This initiative promoted gender equality, inclusivity, and equal participation in both sports and social causes, underscoring the message that blood donation is a cause for everyone, regardless of gender or background. The event emphasized the life-saving impact of blood donation, highlighting that one donation can save up to three lives.

The event was graced by Yashodhan Wanage, Commissioner of Customs, Pune, who was the distinguished guest for the occasion. In his address, Shri Wanage congratulated the KSH Distriparks team on their victory and acknowledged the importance of staying fit in order to donate blood. He also praised PCHAA for its consistent efforts in promoting blood donation through sports and lauded the association’s blood donation camps held annually at ICD Dighi and KSH Talegaon.

Along with commissioner Wanage, Raj Deepak Bhargava – Avignon Shipping was present as guest of honor for the event.

Pradeep Kale, President of PCHAA, expressed his gratitude to all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their support in making the tournament a success. He emphasized that the event was not just about cricket but about coming together as a community to raise awareness about blood donation. He also highlighted the importance of gender equality, applauding the inclusion of women players and reinforcing the idea that social causes unite everyone.

Total 12 teams participated in the tournament. The final was played between KSH Distriparks and Avignon shipping.

The tournament concluded with a special recognition for Captain Samarth, who was awarded a trophy for his unwavering dedication to the association. Despite being a senior member, Captain Samarth has been actively involved in PCHAA’s initiatives, setting a strong example that age is no barrier when it comes to contributing to a noble cause.

Special thanks were extended to Sanjay Hemgude, Event in charge, and Rohini Pawar, Co-in charge, for their tireless efforts in organizing the event. Their dedication ensured that the tournament ran smoothly and successfully, leaving a lasting impact on all participants.

“The success of this tournament is a testament to the power of sports and community spirit. We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors and participants. Together, we can continue to spread the message of blood donation and save lives,” said Shri Pradeep Kale, President of PCHAA.

PCHAA remains committed to raising awareness about blood donation through initiatives like this tournament and its annual organization of blood donation camps on Kargil Diwas each year at ICD Dighi and KSH Talegaon.