Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned Gangtok’s streets into an impromptu football field on Tuesday, delighting a group of local schoolchildren during his Sikkim tour. This spontaneous match has been hailed as a game-changer by AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, who vows to rally more youngsters into the sport.
Speaking exclusively, Chaubey described the event as a source of pride for every football lover. ‘It’s thrilling to see our PM playing football himself. Football is the world’s game, and in India, crores of children are already hooked,’ he noted, pointing to its strong heritage in Bengal.
The Prime Minister’s love for sports extends beyond football. His Khelo India program has transformed lives, providing opportunities to countless athletes. Honors bestowed upon Asian Games and Paralympic champions reflect his dedication to fostering a sporting culture.
On X, Modi shared vibrant photos of the session, writing, ‘An amazing football session with these young stars in Sikkim.’ Another post captured the morning’s charm: ‘Gangtok mornings are special, especially with football and tiny friends.’ A shared video showed him motivating the kids: ‘Matches teach more than practice. Build that fire inside. India eyes Olympics hosting—get ready to shine by then.’
This isn’t just playtime; it’s a strategic push. Chaubey emphasized collective efforts to draw in more children, leveraging Modi’s influence. As India eyes global sporting glory, such moments bridge the gap between leaders and the grassroots, inspiring a new wave of talent. Football’s growth in the country now feels unstoppable, fueled by top-level endorsement and grassroots zeal.
