New book on football at grassroots level launched

A new book focussing on development of football at the grassroots level, written by global governing body FIFA's Regional Development Officer for South and Central Asia Shaji Prabhakaran, was launched here on Monday.

Titled "Back To The Roots, A definitive Guide To Grassroots and Football Development", the book was launched in the presence of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Praful Patel, AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das and Indian football legends I.M. Vijayan, Bhaichung Bhutia, Jo Paul Ancheri and Bruno Coutinho.

The book focuses on the roadmap of Indian football to U-17 World Cup, to be hosted by India next year.

It discusses in detail how to develop the game from the micro level in the country.

Prabhakaran said his knowledge and experience of working at the grassroots level has helped him shape the book.

"I wish Shaji all the success with his book. His rich experience with grassroots and football development makes it an enriching read," Patel later tweeted.

"I like the book by the title and the book reminds us that Indian Football needs grassroots and it is imperative to work on it."

"Our entire focus right now is at the grassroots level and that is why Indian Football is witnessing changes and progressing in the right direction", he added.

AFter the book launch a panel discussion was held in which Bhutia, Patel, Prabhakaran and others put forward their views on the importance of a grassroots programme to develop the game.

--IANS

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