In alignment with India’s centenary year of independence in 2047, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has introduced its strategic plan known as ‘Vision 2047’. This initiative aims to position India as a top contender in Asian football. Developed collaboratively with stakeholders within Indian Football, contributions have also been made by the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA.
The Blueprint of ‘Vision 2047’
AIFF has split ‘Vision 2047’ into six distinct four-year plans. The first segment aims to address objectives up until 2026. The key components of this vision include a national football philosophy, enhancing women’s participation and the overall development of football infrastructure.
National Football Philosophy
The core focus of AIFF’s Vision 2047 revolves around creating a national football philosophy. This strategy involves comprehensive data collection from scouting initiatives, formulating a technical curriculum and emphasising coach and player development. The end-goal is to generate a talent pool for the national team. By developing the Coach Education Program, AIFF aims to enhance the quality of football at all ecosystem levels. Also, the federation targets creating 50,000 active coaches throughout the country by 2026.
Developing a Vibrant Football Ecosystem
Furthering its vision, the AIFF anticipates seeing India among the top four football nations in Asia and hosting one of the continent’s top leagues. With the help of village grassroots programmes, they aim to engage 35 million children across 100 villages nationwide. AIFF also focuses on reaching one million registered players and providing football education to 25 million children through Football for Schools.
Enhancing Women’s Participation in Football
Addressing gender disparity at the grassroots level, AIFF aims for a four-level league table pyramid for women’s football by 2026. The pinnacle will feature a 10-team Indian Women’s League, followed by an 8-team second division. Additionally, the AIFF has set a goal to have at least 20 states implement new women’s youth structures by 2027.
Infrastructure Development
Recognising the need for improved infrastructure, AIFF is introducing policies to encourage investment from government authorities, football clubs, corporates, and private investors.
The Current State of Football in India
Despite being the world’s second-most populous country, football in India is in its developmental stage, lagging behind cricket in popularity. The main challenges include lack of investment and poor infrastructure. However, recent developments, including improved FIFA ranking and the popularity of ISL and I-League, reflect potential for future growth.
About AIFF
AIFF, the official body managing association football in India, oversees India’s national football team and controls premier domestic club competition, I-League. Since its establishment in 1937 and subsequent FIFA affiliation in 1948, it has actively contributed to the development and promotion of football in the country. Currently headquartered in Dwarka, New Delhi, India was one of the founding members of the Asian Football Confederation in 1954.
