Manipur SAFF winners demand better support and job paths

Imphal: Nine Manipuri footballers who helped India win the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship met with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh this week. They want the state to pour more money into grassroots programs. The squad needs better career paths.

The group included stars like Dangmei Grace, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, and Serto Lynda Kom. They reminded the state that nearly half the national roster calls Manipur home. These athletes have played in the Asian Games and helped India qualify for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the first time in over two decades.

Success hides deep cracks. Many top-tier players leave the state just to find work, which drains the local talent pool. To fix this, the delegation proposed regular annual tournaments to catch young talent before they jump ship. "The government would examine measures to improve career progression and promotional opportunities for sportspersons employed in state government departments in recognition of their achievements and contributions to Indian sports," said the Chief Minister.

Singh patted the team on the back for their gold medal performance in Goa. He pledged to upgrade sports infrastructure. Now, the players wait to see if those promises turn into paychecks.