Football
AIFF, Clubs discuss roadmap to improve I-League and IWL
AIFF and club representatives unanimously agreed on the need to elevate the leagues' quality and facilitate player availability for national duty.
AIFF, Clubs discuss roadmap to improve I-League and IWL ( Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) held a crucial meeting with representatives from I-League and Indian Women's League (IWL) clubs in the capital to discuss strategies for enhancing the leagues' standards and overall footballing ecosystem in the country.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey chaired the meeting, accompanied by Secretary General Anilkumar, Treasurer Kipa Ajay, and Deputy Secretary General Satyanarayan M. The discussions saw participation from nine I-League clubs and four IWL clubs.
Key topics on the agenda included next season’s fixtures, the competition calendar, promotion strategies, broadcasting improvements, and the release of national team players for extended training camps.
Both the AIFF and club representatives unanimously agreed on the need to elevate the leagues' quality and facilitate player availability for national duty.
Real Kashmir FC owner Arshad Shawl described the discussions as "positive and collaborative," highlighting the clubs' efforts to propose improvements for the 2025-26 season. "The clubs made several suggestions regarding the efficiency of the I-League and grassroots development, many of which were accepted. We look forward to working with the AIFF to implement these changes," he said.
Inter Kashi FC President Prithiijit Das praised the AIFF’s approach, noting that President Chaubey dedicated significant time to understanding club concerns. "For the first time, the AIFF President has spent long hours listening to the clubs. He assured us that issues will be addressed in detail and that a sustainable fixture plan will be developed," Das stated.
AIFF Secretary General Anilkumar termed the meeting "successful and fruitful," emphasizing its long-term impact. "This will contribute significantly to football development and long-term planning for the I-League and IWL. I am confident that the AIFF and clubs will work together to achieve this vision," he said.
The meeting marks a step forward in strengthening India’s domestic football structure, with a focus on improving league operations, player development, and the overall growth of the sport in the country.
