Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Nine footballers from Manipur who were part of India’s title-winning squad at the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship in Goa called on Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and urged the state government to strengthen grassroots football, improve career opportunities for athletes and support the growth of women’s football in the state.
The players met the Chief Minister after India’s successful campaign in Goa, where the national team clinched a record-extending SAFF Women’s Championship title by defeating Bangladesh in the final.
The delegation included striker Dangmei Grace, goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, defenders Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, Sorokhaibam Ranjana Chanu, Yumnam Sarita, Hemam Shilky Devi and Toijam Thoibisana Devi, midfielders Naorem Priyangka Devi and striker Serto Lynda Kom.
During the meeting, the players highlighted Manipur’s significant contribution to Indian women’s football, noting that nine of the 23 members of the national squad are from the state. They also recalled that several Manipuri players represented India at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, marking the country’s first qualification for the continental tournament in 23 years. Four members of the delegation were also part of the Indian team that competed at the 2023 Asian Games in China.
Despite these achievements, the players expressed concern over the declining representation of Manipuri footballers in the national setup. They said many talented athletes are forced to move outside the state in search of employment, affecting the development of football in Manipur.
To address the issue, the delegation proposed the introduction of annual women’s football tournaments in the state to identify young talent, provide competitive exposure, and strengthen the grassroots football ecosystem.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh congratulated the players for bringing laurels to both Manipur and the country. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting grassroots development.
The Chief Minister also assured the players that the government would examine measures to improve career progression and promotional opportunities for sportspersons employed in state government departments in recognition of their achievements and contributions to Indian sports.