Nagaland will host the inaugural edition of the Dr T Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship in November 2025. The decision was approved by the Executive Committee of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and confirmed by Nagaland Football Association (NFA) president Neibou Sekhose following the AIFF executive meeting on July 2, 2025. The tournament is scheduled for the second week of November.
The championship is named in honour of Dr Talimeren Ao, a legendary figure in Indian football. In 2024, the AIFF announced the renaming of the Junior Girls’ National Championship to the Dr Talimeren Ao National Football Championship for Junior Girls, acknowledging his iconic contribution to Indian football.
Dr Ao was India’s first football team captain and the nation’s flag-bearer at the 1948 London Olympics. He continues to be a symbol of sporting excellence and pride, especially for Nagaland and the entire Northeast region.