Nagaland CM Rio unveils ambitious plans for football development

Nagaland achieved a new milestone in its football journey with the successful culmination of the first-ever Nagaland Super League (NSL) 2025 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium on April 1.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized that NSL is ”not just a tournament, but a movement, a platform, and a celebration of the incredible footballing talent” in Nagaland.

“Sport is more than competition—it builds character, unity, resilience, and hope,” he said, urging young footballers to dream big, work hard, and stay committed to their goals. Quoting legendary footballer Pelé, Rio reminded the gathering: “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love for what you are doing.”

He encouraged football enthusiasts, stakeholders, and the government to be guiding lights for young footballers and announced a series of major initiatives to strengthen football development in Nagaland.

Major announcements for football growth
Rio unveiled key initiatives aimed at nurturing talent and elevating Nagaland’s football scene:

· Nagaland Football Academy: A state-supported professional football academy will be established at Chümoukedima Football Stadium, in collaboration with an internationally reputed institution, to train and develop young players.

· Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarships: This government-backed scholarship program will sponsor select young talents for training at top football academies. The initiative will be funded through the Chief Minister’s Sports Fund in collaboration with the Nagaland Olympic Association, affiliated sports bodies, and national federations. Talented players will be identified by expert professionals and trained at high-performance academies with the goal of competing at the highest levels of football.

· Nagaland International Gold Cup: The state will host an international football tournament featuring four local teams, four national teams, and four international teams. The event aims to provide international exposure to local players and prepare Nagaland’s clubs for the I-League.

· Financial Support for I-League Teams: The government will award ¹ 2 crore per annum to local teams that qualify for the National I-League, ensuring that clubs have the resources to compete at the highest level.

In his concluding remarks, Rio urged all stakeholders—public and private—to invest in grassroots football development, infrastructure, and capacity-building. He stressed the need to not only sustain the NSL but also expand and elevate it, making Nagaland a significant force in Indian football.

Barack FC clinches NSL 2025 title
In the grand finale, Barack FC defeated Longterok FC 3-1, emerging as the champions of the inaugural Nagaland Super League. The match, held at Chümoukedima Football Stadium, showcased top-tier talent and footballing excellence, capturing the passion of fans from across the state.

Deputy CM Y Patton: “NSL sets a new standard”

Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton, speaking as the honored guest, praised the NSL for setting a new benchmark for football competitions in Nagaland.

“Though this was the first edition, the league has been well-structured and has brought together the best of local talent,” he remarked. Patton commended the Chief Minister’s leadership in promoting sports and music, highlighting the government’s commitment to developing a robust sporting ecosystem through infrastructure, training camps, and coaching programs.

Acknowledging the seven teams that participated, Patton lauded the players and officials for their professionalism and fair play, which earned the respect of football fans across Nagaland and beyond.

AIFF and Inspire Institute of Sport pledge support

All India Football Federation (AIFF) Secretary General, Anilkumar P., applauded Nagaland’s enthusiasm for football and assured continued support from the federation.

He also urged the state government to build a larger stadium, suggesting a capacity of over 25,000 spectators for future editions of the NSL.

Manisha Malhotra, President of Inspire Institute of Sport, echoed similar sentiments, stating that Nagaland has the potential to become a football powerhouse in India. She emphasized the importance of long-term investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development to turn local events into national and international spectacles.

“Here is a group of talented athletes and a younger generation that needs to be groomed and trained. The solution is continued growth, development, and unwavering support for athletes,” she said.

A star-studded closing ceremony
The closing ceremony was graced by prominent figures, including Olympian and Arjuna Awardees, Chekrovolu Swuro; Paralympian Paris Olympic and Paralympian Games Medalist, Hokato Hotozhe Sema; Founding President of Nagaland Olympic Association, Lanu Toy; Advisor, Department of Youth Resource & Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung; and Chairman NSL General Secretary, NFA & MLA, Benei M. Lamthiu.

(With DIPR inputs)

MT