Kick-off for Football for Schools: Over 88,000 FIFA Footballs Rolled Out in West Bengal

Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, unveiled the Football for Schools (F4S) initiative in Kolkata on Sunday, distributing 2,487 FIFA footballs to 349 schools in the district. The program, organized by the Ministry of Education and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), aims to foster a sporting spirit among students across West Bengal.

The launch event at the PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya, Fort William, saw participation from key dignitaries including Sukanta Majumdar, Minister of State for Education, and Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. With over 88,000 footballs set to be distributed across West Bengal, the initiative promises to benefit nearly 16 lakh children.

Pradhan emphasized the role of sports in holistic education as envisioned by NEP 2020, underscoring the benefits of a robust sporting culture. The Minister, along with FIFA and AIFF, envisions distributing 10 lakh footballs nationwide. The initiative not only promotes physical activity but also aims to identify emerging talent, fostering a grassroots connection with the sport.

(With inputs from agencies.)