Meghalaya Govt Inks 3-Year MoU with NorthEast United FC to Establish Shillong as India's 'Football Capital'

In a major step to improve sports facilities and regional identity, the Government of Meghalaya has signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NorthEast United Football Club (NEUFC). This partnership, effective from 2025 to 2028, aims to strengthen football development in the state and elevate Shillong as the 'Football Capital of India.' The collaboration brings together the state's Department of Tourism and Department of Sports and Youth Affairs with the Guwahati-based Indian Super League club. This creates a unique link between sports, youth involvement, and tourism.

The partnership focuses on action, with several concrete initiatives planned. These include organizing football training camps, structured coaching programs, setting up fan parks to create a lively game-day atmosphere, and running grassroots awareness campaigns. The main goals of these activities are to identify and develop young football talent from the region and to increase community participation and enthusiasm for the sport. By concentrating on both elite training and mass involvement, the collaboration aims to embed football deeply into the social and cultural life of Meghalaya.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, a strong supporter of youth and sports development, highlighted the many benefits of this long-term partnership. He stated that the initiative aims to give aspiring footballers in Meghalaya a real platform to succeed, creating new opportunities for the youth. Beyond sports, the CM pointed out the economic aspects of the project, noting that it should boost tourism and generate jobs in the state. He reinforced the vision of making Shillong India’s football capital, describing the MoU with NEUFC as a key step in that direction.

This collaboration is also significant for NorthEast United FC, a club that has long promoted football in the northeastern region. The club's owner, actor and sports entrepreneur John Abraham, described the MoU as an important milestone in the club's mission to foster football at the community level. He called it a pivotal step in their broader goal to drive football development throughout the Northeast and to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. NEUFC CEO Mandar Tamhane echoed this sentiment, calling the agreement a landmark moment in the club's journey and stressing its importance.

The formal signing ceremony, attended by representatives from NEUFC and the two state government departments, marks the start of this ambitious venture. Ultimately, this collaboration shows the Government of Meghalaya's vision for combining sports development with promoting tourism and empowering youth. It reflects a comprehensive approach to using a popular sport as a catalyst for social and economic growth and regional pride.