Shillong: The Meghalaya government has entered into a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Super League (ISL) club NorthEast United FC to strengthen football development and project Shillong as India’s emerging ‘Football Capital’, officials announced on Tuesday.
The agreement, effective from 2025 to 2028, brings together the state’s Department of Tourism and Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in collaboration with the Guwahati-based club to promote football culture, encourage youth engagement, and boost tourism in the hill state.
The MoU was signed by representatives of NorthEast United FC and officials from the two state departments in Shillong.
As part of the collaboration, initiatives such as football training camps, coaching programmes, fan parks, and grassroots awareness drives will be rolled out to nurture young talent and enhance community participation in the sport.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma described the partnership as a milestone in Meghalaya’s journey toward becoming a sporting hub.
“This long-term collaboration will open new avenues for our youth, promote tourism, and create employment opportunities in the state,” he said.
NorthEast United FC owner John Abraham said the initiative aligns with the club’s commitment to advancing football across the Northeast and creating a wider social impact.
“This is a landmark moment in our journey with the Meghalaya government, which has been an important partner in our growth,” added the club’s CEO, Mandar Tamhane.
Tamhane also highlighted that the club’s upcoming Residential Academy Centre of Excellence in Shillong will play a crucial role in shaping football talent from the region.
As part of the agreement, players from NorthEast United FC will feature in Meghalaya’s tourism and youth-centric campaigns, underscoring the state’s growing profile as both a football powerhouse and a vibrant tourist destination.
