Shillong, Oct 14: NorthEast United FC has signed a three-year MoU with the Meghalaya government to accelerate football development in the region and position Shillong as the football capital of India.
The partnership, effective from 2025 to 2028, brings together NorthEast United FC, Meghalaya Department of Tourism, and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in a unified effort to promote football culture, drive youth participation, and strengthen Meghalaya’s standing as one of India’s leading tourism destinations.
“This long-term partnership will help Meghalaya youth in unlocking new opportunities in football, promote tourism, and generate jobs in the State,” Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said about the partnership.
Under the MoU, the parties will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including football camps, coach education programmes, fan parks, and youth-oriented awareness drives aimed at nurturing grassroots talent and enhancing fan engagement.
“The Government of Meghalaya has been a steadfast supporter of NorthEast United FC. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our long-term vision to drive football development across the Northeast and create a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” John Abraham, owner of NorthEast United FC, said.
The collaboration will also see NorthEast United FC players feature in Meghalaya’s youth and tourism campaigns, promoting the state’s unique identity as both the football capital of India and a vibrant travel destination.
“Our Residential Academy-Centre of Excellence, coming up in Shillong, will serve as a stepping stone for football development in Meghalaya, the Northeast, and Indian football at large,” NEUFC CEO Mandar Tamhane said.
