Nagaland’s long-awaited football tournament, the Nagaland Super League (NSL), was launched by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday evening at the new Chümoukedima Football Stadium (CFS), Police Complex. This event was an important step in the state’s support for sports. The inauguration also saw the launch of FIFA’s “Football for Schools” initiative. All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey handed over the first of 2,484 footballs to the state’s School Education department for distribution to schools across Nagaland.
Nagaland’s Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, announced the start of the National Sports League (NSL) on January 28, highlighting the state’s growing sports focus. He praised the state government for building six astro-turfs in six districts and plans to build more within three years. Rio hoped the league would bring pride to the state and showcase the untapped potential of Northeast youth in football.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey praised the Nagaland government’s support for football and the NSL initiative, praising the state’s Rs 1-crore prize. Youth Resources and Sports Adviser Keoshu Yimkhiung emphasized the NSL’s potential to grow football in Nagaland and inspire young players. NOA Secretary General and AIFF Executive Member Abu Metha provided an overview.
