NorthEast United FC and the Meghalaya government sign a 3-year MoU to promote football, tourism, and youth development in Shillong.
DIMAPUR — NorthEast United FC has signed a three-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government of Meghalaya to accelerate football development in the region and position Shillong as the football capital of India.
The partnership, effective from 2025 to 2028, brings together NorthEast United FC, the Department of Tourism, the government of Meghalaya, and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, the government of Meghalaya, in a unified effort to promote football culture, drive youth participation, and strengthen Meghalaya’s standing as one of India’s leading tourism destinations.
According to an update, under the MoU, the parties will collaborate on initiatives including football camps, coach education programmes, fan parks, and youth-orientated awareness drives aimed at nurturing grassroots talent and enhancing fan engagement.
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“This long-term partnership will help Meghalayan youth in unlocking new opportunities in football, promote tourism, and generate jobs in the state,” Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad Sangma said about the partnership.
“The government of Meghalaya has been a steadfast supporter of NorthEast United FC. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our long-term vision to drive football development across the Northeast and create a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” John Abraham, owner of NorthEast United FC, said.
“This is a landmark moment in our journey with the Meghalaya government, which has always been an important partner in our growth. Our Residential Academy – Centre of Excellence, coming up in Shillong, will serve as a stepping stone for football development in Meghalaya, the Northeast, and Indian football at large,” Mandar Tamhane, CEO, NorthEast United FC, said.
The collaboration will also see NorthEast United FC players feature in Meghalaya’s youth and tourism campaigns, promoting the state’s unique identity as both the football capital of India and a vibrant travel destination.