Kathmandu, Nepal – In a significant move to bolster the growth and promotion of football across the nation, the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) has held a constructive meeting with the newly-appointed Minister for Youth and Sports, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha. The delegation, led by ANFA President Pankaj Bikram Nembang and accompanied by General Secretary Kiran Rai, Deputy General Secretary Damodar Bhattarai, and Executive Committee member Manish Joshi, presented a comprehensive roadmap for the development of the sport at various levels.
The meeting, held at the minister’s office in Singha Durbar, provided a platform for ANFA to outline its ambitious plans and seek governmental support to overcome the financial constraints that have hindered the association’s ability to host national and international tournaments on a regular basis.
During the productive discussions, President Nembang highlighted ANFA’s unwavering commitment to promoting grassroots talent and fostering footballing activities across different age groups and levels. He emphasized the association’s determination to organize both national and international tournaments, showcasing Nepal’s talent on the global stage and inspiring the next generation of footballers.
Recognizing the financial challenges faced by ANFA, President Nembang drew the minister’s attention to the pressing need for governmental assistance. He submitted a memorandum outlining the association’s requirements, including funding to facilitate top-tier leagues such as the A, B, and C Division Leagues, league qualifiers, women’s competitions, and district tournaments.
“We are committed to taking Nepali football to new heights, but our efforts are hampered by financial constraints,” stated President Nembang. “With the government’s support, we can ensure the smooth execution of footballing activities nationwide, providing our talented players with the platforms they deserve to showcase their skills and passion for the game.”
Furthermore, President Nembang proposed measures to enhance the welfare of the national men’s and women’s team members. He appealed for governmental backing to provide an additional monthly allowance to the players, complementing the existing support provided by ANFA. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by the athletes, allowing them to focus solely on their training and performance.
In a bid to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Nepali footballers, President Nembang also proposed the establishment of annual awards for the best male and female players. He sought the government’s assistance in implementing this initiative, which would not only honor the top performers but also inspire future generations to strive for excellence in the sport.
The ANFA delegation’s visit to the newly-appointed minister was not merely a formal courtesy call; it was a strategic move to align the association’s goals with the government’s vision for sports development in the country. By presenting a comprehensive plan and seeking financial support, ANFA has demonstrated its commitment to fostering a vibrant football ecosystem that nurtures talent, promotes grassroots initiatives, and provides platforms for athletes to thrive.
Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha expressed his appreciation for ANFA’s efforts and acknowledged the crucial role football plays in promoting youth engagement, fostering national pride, and inspiring a healthy lifestyle among the younger generation. He assured the delegation of his commitment to supporting the development of football in Nepal and pledged to work closely with ANFA to address the financial challenges hindering the sport’s growth.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about the future of Nepali football. ANFA’s proactive approach and the government’s willingness to collaborate have set the stage for a potential transformation in the sporting landscape of the country.
As the nation eagerly awaits the implementation of these ambitious plans, football enthusiasts and stakeholders across Nepal are united in their excitement for the growth and promotion of the beautiful game. With the combined efforts of ANFA and the government, the future of Nepali football promises to be brighter than ever, nurturing talent, fostering community engagement, and inspiring a new generation of athletes to dream big and achieve greatness on the global stage.
