Union Minister Raksha Khadse visits Northeast United FC

Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Khadse, visited NorthEast United FC and met club officials, coaches and academy players. The Minister praised the club for giving young footballers structured opportunities, with a special focus on talent from the North East and other parts of India.

During the visit, Raksha Khadse underlined the importance of long-term planning in Indian football. “The future of Indian football depends on our ability to identify talent early, provide quality coaching and create structured opportunities for progression. Initiatives that combine grassroots scouting, athlete development and long-term planning are critical for strengthening India's football ecosystem,” she said.

NorthEast United FC youth development and Indian football talent pathway

The club’s leadership briefed Raksha Khadse on NorthEast United FC’s youth development model and talent pathway. Officials explained how the academy aims to build a sustainable system that can guide promising players from grassroots level into the Under-18 squad, Reserve Team and eventually the senior side over several years.

Chief Executive Officer Mandar Tamhane led the interaction at NorthEast United FC, joined by Technical Director and Reserve Team Head Coach Naushad Moosa. Officials including Rohit Thorat were also present, along with members of the management group, coaching staff and a group of young footballers training with the club.

NorthEast United FC scouting network and Indian football talent identification

Club representatives outlined an extensive scouting programme managed by Naushad Moosa, where coaches travelled to different states. They tracked players through NorthEast United FC’s network of coaches and former players, youth tournaments conducted by the All India Football Federation and ongoing assessments of footballers representing India in various age-group national teams.

As part of this selection drive, close to 60 talented youngsters were invited to Guwahati for final trials. Those who impressed the staff are expected to become the backbone of NorthEast United FC’s Under-18 and Reserve Team squads, strengthening the club’s long-term player pipeline and adding depth to future senior teams.

NorthEast United FC, Indian football talent and government support

Raksha Khadse noted that the North East has remained one of India’s strongest sporting regions and continues to produce many skilled footballers. The Minister stressed that steady investment in coaching standards, training facilities and scientific athlete support is essential to draw out more potential from players in the region.

The Minister also appreciated NorthEast United FC’s structured approach to scouting and development, saying it aligned with national priorities for youth sport. Raksha Khadse reiterated the Government’s focus on grassroots sports, athlete development pathways and wider access to opportunities for young sportspersons across India, including those from smaller towns and remote districts.

The visit to NorthEast United FC formed part of Raksha Khadse’s wider schedule in Meghalaya and the North East. During these engagements, the Minister reviewed sports infrastructure, athlete development projects and youth programmes in the region, while observing how clubs like NorthEast United FC contribute to India’s football structure at the grassroots and elite levels.