the Kolkata Derby took place in Lucknow’s KD Singh Babu Stadium. It turned out to be a truly historic occasion for football in the state as the Honorable Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, made a number of announcements that would significantly boost the sport in the most populous state in the nation. While Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, two of Indian football’s longstanding rivals, battled it out on the field to the delight of the onlookers, Shri Adityanath promised the state government will do everything in its power to elevate football in Uttar Pradesh.

The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Shri Adityanath, has announced plans to construct 18 football stadiums throughout the state’s 18 commissariats as a first step. The honorable chief minister has stated that 827 football fields will be set up in every block throughout the state to guarantee sufficient football facilities, which will encourage holding of future competitions. During the match on Monday, the CM had stated: “I would like to extend my heartfelt welcome to the teams of Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC on behalf of the UP govt and its people. It is of great importance to us that this prestigious match is being played in our state’s capital, Lucknow, for the first time. The ‘Khelo India’ initiative, championed by PM Narendra Modi, has been a key driver of progress of sports in India and inspired by his vision, UP has aligned itself with this mission.”

Yogi Adityanath’s vision for football in Uttar Pradesh represents a significant step towards transforming the state into a football powerhouse. By focusing on infrastructure, youth development, grassroots engagement, and professional training, the initiative has the potential to create a lasting impact on the sport and the community. As Uttar Pradesh embarks on this ambitious journey, the success of this plan could set a benchmark for football development across India, bringing new opportunities and excitement to the world of football.