 "I see an outset of a footballing atmosphere in India: PM")
With India gearing up to host the FIFA U-17 World Cup next year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said he sees the "outset of a footballing atmosphere" in the country that longs to one day compete in the sport's showpiece event.
For the third time in three months, football played an important part in the PM's address to the nation. During his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme, Modi called for creation of the right atmosphere for the game's development.
"Last time around, I had talked about FIFA U-17 World Cup and I have received suggestions from all over the country. I see the outset of a footballing atmosphere here - a lot of people are taking the initiative and funding a team of their own. I have received thousands of suggestions on Narendra Modi mobile app," Modi said.
"It might be the case that a lot of people do not play the game but to know of the interest of millions of youngsters in the game was a very pleasant experience for me. Our affinity for cricket was well known to me but the growing interest for football itself indicates a fruitful future," he added.
Modi had earlier urged Indian football fans to give suggestions and ideas to help make the game more popular throughout the country.
Preparations are underway to host the mega event in October 2017.
For the third time in three months, football played an important part in the PM's address to the nation. During his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme, Modi called for creation of the right atmosphere for the game's development.
"Last time around, I had talked about FIFA U-17 World Cup and I have received suggestions from all over the country. I see the outset of a footballing atmosphere here - a lot of people are taking the initiative and funding a team of their own. I have received thousands of suggestions on Narendra Modi mobile app," Modi said.
"It might be the case that a lot of people do not play the game but to know of the interest of millions of youngsters in the game was a very pleasant experience for me. Our affinity for cricket was well known to me but the growing interest for football itself indicates a fruitful future," he added.
Modi had earlier urged Indian football fans to give suggestions and ideas to help make the game more popular throughout the country.
Preparations are underway to host the mega event in October 2017.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
SAVE 25%
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Subscribe
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
SAVE 25%