AIFF signs MoU with Manipur Govt to create world-class football facilities

The agreement was signed ahead of the India vs Kyrgyz Republic match in Imphal.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF), on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Manipur to create world-class footballing facilities in the state.

The MoU was signed ahead of the Hero Tri-Nation International Football Tournament’s deciding encounter between the Kyrgyz Republic and India at the Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal.

Present on the occasion were the honourable Governor of Manipur, Sushri Anusuiya Uikey, the honourable Chief Minister of Manipur, Shri N Biren Singh, the honourable Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Manipur, Shri Govindas Konthoujam, Shri RK Imo Singh, MLA, Shri Arunkumar Thangjam, MLA, the President of the AIFF, Mr. Kalyan Chaubey, AIFF Secretary General, Dr. Shaji Prabhakaran and All Manipur Football Association President M Ratan Kumar Singh.

Speaking on the occasion, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey said: Manipur deserves a bigger initiative. The honourable chief minister being a former footballer is of huge help. He has a great commitment to taking football in this state ahead.

“We are collaborating with the Manipur government and will provide the best support possible from our side. I’m hopeful that the All-India Football Federation and the Manipur government will make a big difference to Indian football with this project,” he said.

AIFF Secretary General Shaji Prabhakaran said: “Manipur has made history by holding a senior international tournament for men for the first time. The success of these matches proved that the people of Manipur have football in their blood. At the same time, it also proves what great height the game can reach in this state.

“We are joining hands with the Manipur government to take things forward. We’ll set up a Centre for Excellence to produce elite players. We’re very hopeful that once it becomes operational, many more talents will emerge from the state. They will not only reach the national platform but will succeed at the global level too,” Dr Prabhakaran said.