Defending champions Mohun Bagan were eliminated by Mohammedan Sporting in the semi-final, who faced Mahindra United in the final.
Mahindra United went on to win their maiden title with Shanmugam Venkatesh scoring the winner for them in the 78th minute.
[2] Raphaël Patron Akakpo of Mahindra United finished the tournament as the top-scorer with three goals.
[3] The All India Football Federation announced on 11 May 2003 that the tournament would commence on 25 July 2003 and completed on 8 August.
[5] The Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata was announced as the venue of the matches and that 16 teams would compete.