Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandavia on Monday praised the historic 'Indian Tigers and Tigrasses' campaign organized by the TV9 network. Under this initiative, young football talents were searched across the country, in which a large number of children took part. After returning from a historic visit to Europe, the Sports Minister encouraged the young players. Mandavia asked these promising players to work hard for 2036 Olympics and establish India in the FIFA World Cup.

Sports Minister's inspirational message

Mandavia gave the example of the Indian Army, inspiring the youth, which represents the country just like the players. He talked to children about Europe's experiences and expressed confidence in India's football in future. Let me tell you that 50,000 registrations were initially registered for this program, out of which 10,000 children were selected for regional trials. Finally, only 28 talented players were selected for special training in Austria and Germany.

Starting in April 2024, the campaign was known as the world's largest football talent hunt program, with children from 12–14 and 15–17 age groups. 28 young footballers fulfilled their dreams and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also blessed them on March 28 at the 'What India Thinks Today' Summit.

Indian youth performance in Europe

In Gmunden, Austria, young players showed their talent in strict training sessions under the guidance of top European coaches. Despite the challenges of the weather, he caught the attention of the coach of the German club VFB Stutgart. The Indian team dusted the Gmunden Football Academy 7–0 in the U-15 match, while the U-13 girls team faced defeat despite a tremendous struggle. Four of the 28 players got a 2-day training with Stutgart's U-12 team in Germany. At the same time, data-based performance analysis of the rest of the players in Austria was performed, including aspects like speed, balance and stamina.

New India's football expectations

This campaign has shown a new path for the future of Indian football. Young talents proved that India can also dominate the global football map on getting the right guidance and opportunity. With the support of Sports Minister Mandavia and the efforts of the TV9 network, the 'Indian Tigers and Tigrants' campaign has aroused a new enthusiasm towards football in the country. Now everyone's eyes are on 2036 Olympics and FIFA World Cup, where these youth can create storms.