In a landmark step towards inclusive football development, India’s first FIFA Talent Academy for girls was officially launched in Hyderabad on Saturday, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the country.
The launch was announced during the inaugural Telangana Sports Conclave at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre, where the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Government of Telangana signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the collaboration.
Telangana Chief Minister Shri A Revanth Reddy, AIFF President Shri Kalyan Chaubey, and Principal Secretary (I&C and IT) Shri Jayesh Ranjan were present, along with sports leaders and policy makers.
This is India’s second FIFA-backed Talent Academy overall and the first dedicated to girls. It will operate under FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme (TDS) and be housed at the Gachibowli Stadium Complex. The residential academy will cater to 60 elite players – 30 boys (U14) and 30 girls (U16) – with 10 players from Telangana in each group. The facility will offer year-round training, education, medical support, nutrition, and mental wellness services.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey called the initiative “a defining moment” and emphasized its role in nurturing future talent for India’s U-17 FIFA World Cup aspirations.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy hailed it as a “game-changer” for girls’ football, aligning with Telangana’s vision to become a national sporting hub.
The AIFF will lead operations and technical direction, while the Sports Authority of Telangana will manage infrastructure and logistical support.
Also Read: Lionel Messi to visit 3 cities in India in December 2025