The Union Government is aiming to help India keep pace with the global progress that football maintains. “The World Cup (under-17) is a watershed moment for Indian football. It is a step towards reclaiming our past glory,” said Union Sports Secretary Injeti Srinivas.
“The under-17 World Cup is the third most important FIFA event [after senior and U-20]. It will enable India to align with the global system and the competitive system that football generates. We have to create the necessary infrastructure, leagues, talent identification process and training methods.”
Srinivas emphasised the need to introduce modern training from the formative stage. “The moulding has to be done at the youngest level. That’s why the AIFF (All India Football Federation) is having the baby leagues (u-13, u-14, 5-7).”
The hosting of the cup would not have been possible without Government support he added. “The Government provided all the guarantees which the FIFA wanted to host the event. We didn’t have the kind of infrastructure for football as we would have liked barring one or two places.”
Srinivas also underlined the importance of organising competitions for players in all age groups. “We have to start a major junior development programme and not just for selecting 21 players. When you have different age-group competitions, it will give a trigger to junior teams. I see a churning process that will push the game in the right direction. This is a transformational phase that promises good results.”
On the importance of club culture in identifying and grooming talent, Srinivas said, “The primary reason why we have not kept pace with the others is that we don’t have a commercial format. The club won’t thrive without it. How then would you identify talent because clubs invest in youngsters to keep their stature.
“Football can’t be just federation driven. Federation can be there to implement regulations but the driving force has to be clubs. The club creates a fan base and catchment area that propels the game. There can be certain aberrations in the process but they can be tackled with time.”
Would the Government look to protect the club culture in India? “The Government can’t fund the clubs but we can create an ecosystem by providing coaches and infrastructure. I am sure it will give a fillip to the game in India. Till then let us enjoy our team compete on the big stage. We may be the underdogs but they are very confident.”