FIFA U-17 World Cup to be a Catalyst in India

FIFA U-17 World Cup has received praise from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a statement. He recognises it as a golden opportunity to make football popular in India.

Therefore, the government is setting up a football programme. They aim to introduce the sport to children from all over the country and play a game of football. There are hopes that this will spark interest for the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup.

2017 will be the year that India hosts the FIFA U-17 World Cup. It will take place between 6th and 28th October.

Narendra Modi sees the potential for a big change in India’s attitude to football. From his official statement, he says of the sporting event:

“FIFA U-17 World Cup must be a catalyst for change, the tipping point for football in the country.”

In a statement released earlier today, Prime Minister @narendramodi urged the nation to rally behind FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017. #FIFAU17WC pic.twitter.com/0nVVbvS4aJ

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 17, 2017

Mission XI Million

Therefore, the Indian government are putting action to their words. A programme called ‘Mission XI Million’ has been set up to achieve Modi’s hopes.

Launching in December, Mission XI Million aims to have all children across India the chance to experience the beautiful game of football. The campaign hopes to be a massive success. They are keen to inspire the next generation.

Nicolai Adam, India’s U-17 football team coach, will likely agree with Mission XI Million and their aims. Back in December, he too had high expectations for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. He hopes:

“Everyone will co-operate to make it a great event and ensure India has a footballing future.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

However, Narendra Modi is keen to emphasise how the whole country needs to work together for this ambitious project. He asked: “Every parent and of every teacher to encourage boys and girls to play football.”

Therefore, Narendra Modi is on a mission to get everyone talking and thinking about football. In the last few weeks, it appears the campaign is going from strength to strength.

On social media, Mission XI Million has revealed that everyone is showing their support for football.

We are overwhelmed by the support and participation of the female teachers during our seminar in Navi, Mumbai and Ranchi. #MissionXIMillion #MXIM

A photo posted by Mission XI Million (@mximindia) on Jan 21, 2017 at 6:11am PST

After multiple schools partnering up with Mission XI Million, it is sure to be a success.

FIFA U-17 World Cup is set to be a highly-anticipated event for all of India (and the world) to see.