Imphal, Feb 22: Manipur CM N. Biren Singh unveiled the state budget which focuses on key sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sports (Football), among others.
The budget is to spend Rs 35,022 crore for the financial year. In terms of sports development, Manipur Government has allocated Rs 7.2 crore this year to promote the indigenous sports complex in the Senapati district.
However, the state government intends to build at least two world-class academies to promote sports such as football and boxing.
CM Biren Singh, a footballer himself, said he sees great potential for talent in the state.
Biren Singh said, “India has to qualify for the Football World Cup, so we need continued efforts at least for the next few years. One of the key areas our state government is planning to have a football academy, to begin with.”
To achieve that dream is a long way to go, Singh says, “It is an effort which involves a lot including scouting for talent, giving them world-class coaching facilities and training. But we are ready to put in whatever effort it takes. As a sportsman, I would love to see my state (Manipur) become the football capital of the country.”
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Over the years this northeastern state has produced over 50 international football players- men and women. Manipur has the most number of players in the Indian Super League, Indian Women’s League, and I-League.
The state capital Imphal will host The All India Football Federation (AIFF), Team India’s next tri-nation friendly tournament against Myanmar and Kyrgyz Republic in March.
CM Biren Singh played football for the Border Security Force (BSF) team, which won the Durand Cup, defeating Mohun Bagan in 1981. However, he quit a year later from the team. He has also been a veteran of many domestic tournaments.
