Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded Nagaland’s grassroots football initiatives, describing them as inspiring models for the rest of the country during the latest edition of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.
Highlighting the transformative role of sports in shaping young lives, the Prime Minister reiterated his oft-quoted belief that, “Those who play, blossom,” and noted that an increasing number of young people across India are not only embracing sports but also pursuing it as a viable career.
Drawing national attention to Nagaland, Modi specifically commended two pioneering initiatives—the Nagaland Baby League and the Nagaland Women Futsal League—for promoting football from the grassroots level and creating opportunities for children and women to excel in the sport.
Speaking about the Nagaland Baby League, the Prime Minister remarked that while the name may suggest an ordinary competition for children, it is in fact an extraordinary initiative that nurtures sporting talent from a very young age.
“The first initiative is the Nagaland Baby League. Hearing the name, you might presume this is just an ordinary league for very young children, but that is not the case. It is an extraordinary league for children aged five to twelve that not only inspires them and nurtures their speed and talent but also helps establish their identity,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that the league was launched with the objective of connecting as many children in Nagaland as possible with football. Open to both boys and girls between the ages of five and twelve, the tournament has successfully completed three years and has already made a positive impact on young participants.
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Modi also applauded the Nagaland Women Futsal League, describing it as another remarkable initiative that is empowering young women through sports.
Explaining the format of futsal for listeners unfamiliar with the game, he said it is a form of indoor football played with five players on each side on a much smaller court, requiring players to make quick decisions while relying on their technical ability and skills.
“The Nagaland Women Futsal League is providing a wonderful platform for our daughters to showcase their talent,” the Prime Minister said.
Congratulating the people of Nagaland for successfully promoting these initiatives, Modi said such efforts demonstrate how sports can become a powerful tool for youth development, social inclusion and women’s empowerment.
“I commend the people of Nagaland for such initiatives; these efforts serve as an inspiration to other parts of the country as well,” he stated.
