India has marked a significant milestone in its football development journey with the launch of its first FIFA Talent Academy for girls in Hyderabad. This initiative, a collaborative effort between FIFA, the All India Football Federation (AIFF), and the Telangana government, aims to provide elite training to talented young footballers from across the country, with a special focus on empowering girls in the sport.

The academy was officially inaugurated on Saturday, August 2, 2025, during the first Telangana Sports Conclave at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre. The event was graced by Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, and Principal Secretary, I&C and IT, Government of Telangana, Shri Jayesh Ranjan, along with other dignitaries, sports leaders, and policymakers.

Located at the Gachibowli Stadium Complex in Hyderabad, the academy will offer year-round high-performance training, with comprehensive residential facilities. The program includes education, medical care, nutrition, and mental wellness support for 60 elite players. The selection includes 30 boys (U14) and 30 girls (U16), ensuring a balanced approach to nurturing talent in both categories. Furthermore, the academy will prioritize local talent by including 10 players from Telangana in each category.

AIFF will lead the operations, technical framework, talent scouting, and training curriculum in coordination with FIFA. The Sports Authority of Telangana will oversee infrastructure, logistics, education, financial, and welfare support for the players.

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey hailed the launch as a "defining moment" for Indian football, emphasizing its role in promoting equitable development in the sport. He noted that the academy, in collaboration with the Telangana government and under FIFA's Talent Development Scheme, demonstrates a commitment to identifying, nurturing, and empowering young talents, particularly girls, from all over India. Chaubey expressed confidence that the academy would contribute to realizing the dream of qualifying for the U17 men's and women's FIFA World Cups.

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy echoed this sentiment, calling the academy a "game-changer" for girls' football. He highlighted that it is not only the first of its kind in India but also one of the few globally under FIFA's Talent Development Scheme. Reddy affirmed that young talents, especially girls from Telangana and beyond, will now have access to elite infrastructure, education, and a clear pathway to the national and international stage.

This initiative aligns perfectly with AIFF's "Vision 2047," which aims to establish India as a leading footballing nation. By providing a platform for young athletes to hone their skills and receive comprehensive support, the academy is expected to play a crucial role in elevating the standard of Indian football and fostering a new generation of talented players.