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What's the story?
The Government of India has awarded a special grant to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for the Indian U16 team who are preparing for the AFC U16 Championships later this year. As per reports, a sum of Rs. 9 crores has been given for the cause which will be utilised for the development of the youth team.
In case you didn't know...
The U16 team generally receives a fund for the preparations ahead of any major tournaments such as the U16 AFC Championships and also the U17 World Cup. But the above-mentioned grant is an addition to the normal funds allocated.
The heart of the matter
AIFF is making an effort to improve the quality of Indian football from the junior age group levels, especially after the spirited show of Indian U17 team in the World Cup last year. The governing body is leaving no stones unturned to provide the young players with the best facilities.
The team will be playing practice matches in quick succession as a part of the preparation for big-ticket tournaments. As per the reports of Goal, AIFF head Kushal Das said, "In the AFC U16 Championship later this year, the team will be playing a match every two days and we will be basing the tournaments we will conduct also on that format.
"If they can perform well in the AFC U16 Championship, they qualify directly for next year's FIFA U17 World Cup. Of course, the results are not in our hands but what we can do is ensure we facilitate they have the best conditions to get the results,” added Kushal Das.
What's next?
The U16 squad will now leave for Dubai for a preparatory camp following which they are scheduled to play practice matches against the likes of major teams like Manchester United and PSG, in Doha. The AFC U16 Championships will be played in Malaysia in September.
Author's take
With Indian football on the rise, it is time for the AIFF to concentrate on the different age groups which will develop players from the youth teams and make them prepare to compete with the best when they become professionals. These initiatives taken by the AIFF and the Government of India will definitely help the cause.
