Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren stated that the future of Indian football lies in Manipur. He also said that 45 players from Manipur are playing in I-League Football tournament representing different football clubs.
Biren Singh made the statement while addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony of 13th Shaheed Manoranjan Singh Memorial State Open Football Tournament- 2003 at SAI Sports Complex, Takyel in Imphal.
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Continuing his speech, the Chief Minister stated many football players are representing the Indian team and as such the State Government has made allocation in the budget to establish a Football Academy in the State. He mentioned that Manipur, with its little population, has been contributing a lot in the field of games and sports.
Stressing the desire to upgrade the tournament to national level, he asked the CRPF to give a proposal for the same. He also asked them to organise the tournament at Khuman Lampak main stadium from next year.
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Stating that the State Government is giving priority to some disciples considering the physical structure of the people of the State, Shri N. Biren informed that 7 grassy football fields would be developed in the State and funds had been allocated in the budget for the same. He also informed that the State would be hosting a Tri-Nation Friendly Football Tournament and added that the State has got this opportunity because of the achievements brought by our players.
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Final match was played between Sagolband United and Classic Football Academy. Classic Football Academy won the tournament by beating Sagolband United at 7-0.
During the programme, the Chief Minister also honoured Ng. Memcha, mother of Shaheed Manoranjan Singh.
NNN
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