Manipur Chief Minister N Biren stated that the future of Indian football lies in Manipur, adding that 45 players from the state are playing in I-League Football Tournament representing different football clubs.
He made the statement while addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony of 13th Shaheed Manoranjan Singh Memorial State Open Football Tournament at SAI Sports Complex, Takyel.
The chief minister stated many football players are representing the Indian team and as such the Manipur government has made allocation in the budget to establish a Football Academy in the State. He mentioned that Manipur has been contributing a lot in the field of games and sports.
Stressing the desire to upgrade the tournament to national level, he asked the CRPF to give a proposal for the same. He also asked them to organise the tournament at Khuman Lampak main stadium in Imphal from next year.
Stating that the state government is giving priority to some disciples considering the physical structure of the people of the state, Biren informed that seven football fields would be developed and funds had been allocated in the budget for the same. He also informed that the state would be hosting a Tri-Nation friendly football tournament, adding that the state has got this opportunity because of the achievements brought by the players.
Final match was played between Sagolband United and Classic Football Academy. Classic Football Academy won the tournament by beating Sagolband United 7-0.
During the programme, the Chief Minister also honoured Ng. Memcha, mother of Shaheed Manoranjan Singh.
Chairman, Manipur Electronic Development Corporation S Kunjakeswor Singh, DGP, Manipur P Doungel, Chairman and Managing Director of BABINA Group Dr. Thangjam Dhabali and senior officials of CRPF also attended the closing ceremony among others.