The I-League second division is expected to undergo changes in the coming years. It will become the third division of Indian football after the ISL and I-League.
Moreover, the new system which is expected to come into effect from 22/23 will see the promotion-system come into play. While there will be no promoted teams from the I-League second division this year, there is a chance that the winners of the upcoming edition of the competition could feature in the I-League from 23/24.
I-League second division set to undergo format changes which will bring promotion into effect
Alongside promotion, the second division clubs will also be given a chance to qualify for the Durand Cup and the Hero Super Cup. The second division will be played in a home-away format and will run for upto four months.
There are currently nine teams playing in the I-League second division. Rajasthan United FC are the reigning champions, and have been promoted to the I-League following the I-League qualifiers. Kenkre FC, who replaced Chennai City FC, might be set for a reversal as Chennai can make a comeback.
The 2021/22 I-League will consist of a relegation spot, and the team that collects the lowest number of points in the relegation phase will be sent down to the second division.