In a bid to boost football infrastructure and encourage more tournaments, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced plans to build 18 football stadiums across the state’s 18 divisions. Additionally, 827 football grounds will also be developed in every block across the state.
All India Football Federation President Kalyan Chaubey, speaking before a Derby match in Lucknow where CM Adityanath was also present, praised the chief minister’s commitment to football. He recounted a meeting with CM Adityanath on August 8, where he requested support for the Derby match in Lucknow.
“To my great surprise, the Government of UP took only 19 days to renovate the KD Singh Babu Stadium for this important occasion,” Chaubey said.
“This is a matter of great pleasure for every football lover in Lucknow.”
The KD Singh Babu Stadium hosted its first Kolkata Derby on Monday, marking a historic moment as Mohun Bagan Super Giant triumphed over East Bengal FC with a 1(3)-1(2) penalty win.
Addressing the public at the stadium, CM Adityanath highlighted the significance of the match being held in Lucknow for the first time.
“The Khelo India initiative, championed by PM Narendra Modi, has been a key driver of sports in India and, inspired by his vision, UP has aligned itself with the mission,” he said.