Khelo India ASMITA Football League: In a significant push to increase women's participation in sports, the Khelo India ASMITA Football League 2025-26 was inaugurated by Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State, Youth Affairs and Sports, at the Godavari Engineering College Ground in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. The league, a powerful initiative embodying the principle of affirmative action, aims to unearth and nurture young female talent from diverse communities across the region.
The day-long event, which officially commenced with an opening ceremony, brought together aspiring footballers aged 13 and under. Raksha Khadse, while addressing the gathering, stated that this is the stage "where passion turns into performance," as the league seeks to unleash the "untapped talent" brimming within women's sports. The competition is designed to provide a platform for everyone "from first-time players to hidden champions".
She also underscored the league's broader mission. "This league isn’t just about sports; it’s about breaking barriers," she stated. "It is a powerful step towards affirmative action, bringing aspiring women players, including those from tribal and minority communities, right into the spotlight." The initiative, she added, is a clear articulation of the government's philosophy of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.
