Former AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das passes away at 66

Kushal Das took charge as AIFF General Secretary in 2010

Former All-India Football Federation (AIFF) General Secretary Kushal Das passed away on Friday morning at a private hospital in New Delhi at the age of 66.

Kushal Das was widely regarded as one of the most influential administrators in Indian football, having served as AIFF’s General Secretary from 2010 to 2022. Kushal Das resigned from the post in the year 2022, citing health reasons.

Over more than a decade in the role, he oversaw key administrative functions within the AIFF and played a significant part in shaping several development initiatives aimed at strengthening the structure of the sport in the country.

During his tenure, Indian football experienced a period of structural growth, with the expansion of domestic competitions and increased focus on grassroots development.

Indian football fraternity mourns the passing of Kushal Das

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey paid tribute to Kushal Das, acknowledging his contribution to the growth of the sport.

“Kushal Das played an important role in the administration and development of Indian football during his tenure as General Secretary of the AIFF. His efforts towards Indian football will always be remembered. On behalf of the entire Indian football fraternity, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones in this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,” Chaubey said.

AIFF Deputy Secretary General M. Satyanarayan also expressed his condolences.

“It is indeed sad to hear of Mr Das’s demise. He was one of the longest-serving General Secretaries of the AIFF, serving for over 12 years. During his tenure, the administration at Football House saw many changes and several new departments were created.”

“I had personally reached out to him on numerous occasions, and his demise leaves a huge void in sports administration. May his soul rest in peace.”

A career rooted in sports administration

A Chartered Accountant by profession, Das brought extensive experience in sports management and administration to Indian football.

In 1996, he joined IMG as Chief Financial Officer when the global sports marketing and television production company entered the Indian market.

Kushal Das later served as the Chief Financial Officer of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in Dubai, further strengthening his credentials in international sports administration.

In November 2010, he took charge as the General Secretary of the All-India Football Federation, a role he held for more than a decade.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.