Meghalaya Partners with NorthEast United FC to Promote Football and Tourism
Shillong, Oct 15, 2025 — In a major step toward nurturing sports talent and promoting Meghalaya as a vibrant sports tourism destination, the state government has entered into a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NorthEast United FC, one of the Indian Super League’s most prominent football clubs.
The agreement, which will be in effect from 2025 to 2028, aims to position Shillong as the “Football Capital of India” while creating meaningful opportunities for youth engagement and skill development in the sport.
A Shared Vision for Football and Youth Empowerment
The MoU was officially signed by representatives from NorthEast United FC, the Department of Tourism, and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya.
Speaking about the partnership, officials said the initiative reflects a shared vision to develop a strong football ecosystem in the state through:
-
Grassroots football training camps
-
Coach education and certification programmes
-
Fan engagement zones and community events
-
Youth awareness initiatives to promote physical activity and sports culture
By integrating football development with tourism promotion, the state hopes to harness the popularity of the sport to boost local pride, attract visitors, and offer a constructive platform for young people.
Shillong: A Natural Home for Indian Football
With its rich footballing heritage, passionate fan base, and scenic hill-town charm, Shillong has long been seen as a cradle of football talent in the region. The partnership with NEUFC seeks to tap into this cultural strength and provide structured pathways for young footballers to grow.
“This MoU is not just about football—it’s about empowering our youth, bringing communities together, and showcasing Meghalaya as a premier destination for sports tourism,” said an official from the state tourism department.
A Region-Wide Impact
NorthEast United FC, which represents all eight Northeastern states in the ISL, welcomed the collaboration as a step toward building deeper community ties and creating future stars of Indian football.
The club will work closely with local authorities to conduct outreach events, identify grassroots talent, and enhance coaching capabilities across the state. The aim is to ensure long-term, sustainable growth of the sport beyond major cities and into the heart of Meghalaya’s communities.
Looking Ahead
As the MoU comes into effect, the state is set to witness a renewed energy around football—one that not only celebrates the sport but also nurtures a sense of identity, ambition, and unity among its youth.
With a blend of passion, partnership, and purpose, Meghalaya’s vision of becoming India’s football capital seems well within reach.