As the FIFA World Cup draws global attention, football enthusiasts in Punjab are lamenting the decline of a sport that once thrived in the region. Players, coaches, and promoters agree that talent is not lacking, but sustained investment in infrastructure, coaching, and competitive opportunities is urgently needed.
Decline in Community Tournaments and Local Leagues
Football enthusiasts rue the reduction in community-level tournaments and local leagues. Ajay Aggarwal, a football enthusiast and sports promoter, expressed concern over this trend. "Regular competitions are crucial for player development. They also help build a football culture that encourages youngsters to take up the sport," he said.
Former footballer Rachhpal Singh Raju noted that school and college competitions, once the backbone of talent identification, have lost prominence. "A vibrant grassroots structure is essential if India wants to produce world-class footballers. Talent exists in every district, but opportunities remain limited," he added.
Structured Pathways and International Examples
Philanthropist and football follower Brij Bhushan Goyal pointed out that countries with fewer resources than India have built strong football cultures through sustained investment in youth development, coaching infrastructure, and competitive domestic systems. He emphasized that creating a structured pathway from a young age is key.
Amit Kukreja, an avid follower of the game, highlighted that achievements of Indian-origin footballers representing other countries underscore the potential of local talent.
Need for Quality Coaching and Long-Term Support
Former player Jatinder Singh Shekhawat stressed, "When talented youngsters receive quality coaching, scientific training, professional management, and long-term support, they become capable of competing at the highest level."
Enthusiasts cite examples from Manipur, Mizoram, Kerala, and West Bengal, where community grounds and government support have created a pipeline of talent. Many argue that India never lacked football enthusiasts, but lacks a proper system to develop the game.
