In a session of the Rajya Sabha today, India's footballing aspirations took center stage as Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya addressed concerns about the nation's potential to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The discussion was prompted by Congress member Jose K Mani, who cited the recent qualification of Curaçao, a Dutch-Caribbean island, for the World Cup, as a point of comparison. Mani's query centered on the long-term strategies in place to elevate Indian football to a level where World Cup qualification becomes a realistic goal.
Minister Mandaviya acknowledged the challenges and outlined the government's commitment to developing football at the grassroots level. He emphasized the role of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in formulating and implementing comprehensive development plans. The Sports Minister highlighted the positive strides made through initiatives like the Khelo India program, which aims to identify and nurture young talents across various sports, including football.
"Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is a long-term vision that requires sustained effort and a multi-pronged approach," the Sports Minister stated in response to the question. He further elaborated on the importance of investing in infrastructure, providing quality training to coaches, and creating competitive platforms for players to hone their skills.
The Minister stressed that the AIFF is actively working on these aspects, with a focus on strengthening youth development programs and expanding the reach of football to all corners of the country. He also mentioned the importance of strategic partnerships with international football organizations to gain access to expertise and best practices.
While acknowledging the challenges, Minister Mandaviya expressed optimism about the future of Indian football. He reiterated the government's unwavering support for the sport and its commitment to providing the necessary resources to help India achieve its footballing ambitions. The discussion in the Rajya Sabha underscores the growing importance of football in India and the collective desire to see the nation compete on the world's biggest stage. The Sports Minister's response reflects a commitment to long-term planning and sustained effort, recognizing that qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is an ambitious goal that requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders.
