ITANAGAR, Sep 27: Chief Minister Pema Khandu today assured to implement the grassroot football development program of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in Arunachal Pradesh in 100 government-run schools soon in consultation with the department of education. The programme was today launched by AIFF’s Grassroot Football Development Committee Chairman Shantanu Pujari for the state in presence of AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey.
Welcoming the AIFF delegation, Khandu said that the grassroot football development program that aims to tap, select and nurture football talents in the age group of 6 to 12 years, is ambitious and timely.
Khandu, who also happens to be the honorary president of the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA), said schools with existing infrastructure along with a qualified physical training teacher will be given preference for the  program. “Physical training teachers of selected schools will be trained by AIFF experts so that they are technically equipped to train budding footballers in their respective schools,” he said.

Khandu reiterated his endorsement to promote futsal in the state, which has garnered immense popularity amongst all age group people. He said that one futsal ground will be developed in each district of the state and handed over to district football associations (DFAs) for its upkeep and maintenance. He claimed futsal is one good way to hone one’s footballing talents.
“Futsal in the districts can also generate revenue for the DFAs, which in turn can be used for maintenance of the ground,” he said.
Khandu also suggested that the department concerned need to rope in sports related associations in holding of all government sponsored sporting events.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister hailed the visit of Chaubey and his AIFF team to Arunachal Pradesh terming it as a history.
“Since its inception in 1937, no AIFF president has ever set foot in our state, where football is the most popular game,” he said.
Khandu also congratulated Kipa Ajay for being elected as the Treasurer of AIFF and John Neelam for being nominated as Member of the Grassroot Football Development Committee, first two Arunachalees to be ever in the AIFF.
Legislative Assembly Speaker P D Sona, AIFF representatives, members of APFA, Arunachal Olympic Association and District Football Associations were also present during the function organized to facilitate interaction with AIFF at D K Hall at the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly secretariat.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
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