Imphal: 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 the I-League Football Tournament, representing different football clubs.
He made the statement while addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony of the 13th Shaheed Manoranjan Singh Memorial State Open Football Tournament- 2003 at SAI Sports Complex, Takyel.
The Chief Minister further stated that many football players are representing the Indian team, and as such, the State Government has made an allocation in the budget to establish a football academy in the state. He mentioned that Manipur, with its small population, has been contributing a lot in the field of games and sports.
Stressing the desire to upgrade the tournament to the national level, he asked the CRPF to submit a proposal for the same. He also asked them to organise the tournament at Khuman Lampak’s main stadium next year.
Stating that the State Government is giving priority to some disciples considering the physical structure of the people of the State, N. Biren informed that seven grass football fields would be developed in the State and funds had been allocated in the budget for the same.
He also informed that the state would be hosting a tri-national football tournament and added that the state got this opportunity because of the achievements of our players.
The 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; Director General of Police, Manipur, P. Doungel; Chairman and Managing Director, Babina Group, Dr Thangjam Dhabali; and Senior Officials of the CRPF also attended the closing ceremony.
