India is a land of vast diversity, and the beautiful game helps unite us all. In a first, the All India Football Federation (AIFF), along with the Jammu and Kashmir Football Association, has set up a high-altitude Grassroots Leaders course for physical trainers and footballers in Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, from October 26 to 29.

A total of 24 candidates were provided with the necessary training via practical and theory sessions, by AIFF Grassroots Instructor Shri. Intikhab Alam in Leh Ladakh.

Surrounded by the picturesque Himalayan mountains, the Kendriya Vidyalaya School and Central Institute of Buddhist studies was home to a unique sight where children between the age groups of 6 to 12 took to the grounds clothed in the attire of Buddhist monks.

Earlier this month, a State Development Workshop was also held in the city of Leh. The workshop that was held on Tuesday, October 9, aimed at bringing to light, the development projects that the AIFF is currently undertaking under the FIFA Forward Programme. This also includes hosting a number of Baby Leagues across the country.

The delegation for the workshop also included FIFA Regional Development Manager South Asia region, Prince Rufus. The delegation met with the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council to discuss plans of promoting the sport in the region.

“During my visit to Leh, I was excited and pleasantly surprised to see the enthusiasm of the people to promote football in spite of various deterrents. Ladakh, the land of high passes can arguably be called the Roof of the Nation,” said Rufus.

“We are delighted to introduce the beautiful game to this beautiful region of the country and to assist in the growth and development of football. My best wishes to All India Football Federation for the initiatives being taken in this regard,” he signed off.

The last day of the festival was also presided by District Development Commissioner of Leh, Ms Avny Lavasa. “The AIFF Grassroots Leaders course which was held in Leh was a great source of learning, excitement and inclusion. It was fabulous to experience the enthusiasm and energy that this course generated. Ladakh needs more such initiatives to tap the immense potential that is present in this area. AIFF has done a commendable job to reach the last child in one of the remotest locations of the country and perhaps the world,” she said.

Courtesy : AIFF Media Team