The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has awarded ₹42.75 lakh to the Indian women’s football team as a token of appreciation for securing a place in the upcoming AFC Women’s Asia Cup. The financial reward comes as a recognition of the team’s dedication and success during the qualification campaign.
The AIFF confirmed that the amount will be shared among the players and support staff. Speaking on the occasion, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey praised the team’s performance. “Qualifying for the AFC Women’s Asia Cup is a proud achievement. This reward reflects our continued encouragement for women’s football in India,” he said.
The Indian women’s team displayed consistent and disciplined gameplay in the qualification rounds, earning praise for their teamwork, strategy, and resilience. Their qualification signals progress not only for the team but also for women’s football in the country.
This announcement is part of a broader initiative by the AIFF to promote and strengthen women’s football at all levels. Recent years have seen an increase in development programs, competitive leagues, and international exposure tours aimed at building a sustainable future for female athletes.
Former Indian women’s football captain Oinam Bembem Devi expressed her support for the move. “Recognizing players in this way helps build confidence and motivates the next generation. It’s encouraging to see women’s football being taken seriously,” she noted.
With the Asia Cup ahead, the national team is expected to undergo an intensive preparation schedule, including training camps and international friendlies. Competing at this level offers the squad a platform to gain valuable experience and inspire more participation among young girls in sports.
This reward also reflects a growing shift in Indian sports toward greater gender parity. Experts believe that such support, when combined with visibility and long-term investment, is vital for the growth of women’s sports across disciplines.
As the team prepares to represent India on the continental stage, the AIFF’s gesture sends a strong message about its commitment to supporting excellence and opportunity in women’s football.
