Nine members of the Indian women’s football squad from Manipur met Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to seek enhanced support for women sportspersons and stronger measures to develop grassroots football in the state.
The delegation formed part of the 23-member Indian squad that recently won the 6th South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women’s Championship in Goa. The group included Dangmei Grace (striker), Elangbam Panthoi Chanu (goalkeeper), Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi (defender), Sorokhaibam Ranjana Chanu (defender), Yumnam Sarita (defender), Hemam Shilky Devi (defender), Naorem Priyangka Devi (midfielder), Serto Lynda Kom (striker) and Toijam Thoibisana Devi (defender).
Several of these players have also represented India at major international tournaments, including the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, where India made its first appearance in 23 years, while four members were part of the squad at the 2023 Asian Games in China.
During the interaction, the players highlighted Manipur’s significant contribution to Indian women’s football, noting that the state continues to produce a large number of national-level athletes. They, however, expressed concern that many talented players are compelled to seek employment outside the state, which they said is weakening the local talent pipeline and affecting long-term player development.
The delegation urged the state government to introduce annual women’s football tournaments to improve scouting and exposure at the grassroots level. They also called for strengthened coaching facilities, improved training infrastructure and a more structured competitive system to sustain a steady pipeline of players for the national team. Additionally, they sought clearer career progression and promotional opportunities for sportspersons employed in government departments in recognition of their achievements.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh praised the players for bringing laurels to the state and the country, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting sports, particularly women’s football. He assured them that efforts would be made to strengthen grassroots development, improve sporting infrastructure and consider measures to enhance career opportunities for athletes serving in government roles.
The meeting underscored Manipur’s continued importance in shaping Indian women’s football and highlighted the need for sustained policy support to maintain and expand its contribution to the national team.
