West Bengal Government Reportedly Set to Sponsor Indian Football Team

Indian football could soon get a major backer. The West Bengal government is reportedly preparing to sponsor the Indian football team. The plan is said to be modelled on Odisha’s hugely successful support for hockey. The final decision is expected after discussions in the State Cabinet, and no official announcement has been made yet.

What Is the Odisha Model?

The Odisha government has sponsored both the men’s and women’s Indian hockey teams since 2018, through its state-owned Odisha Mining Corporation. In 2023, the state’s cabinet extended the agreement by ten years, from 2023 to 2033. The extension carries a commitment of ₹434.12 crore.

Odisha’s backing has gone beyond sponsorship. It also covers infrastructure, training facilities and major tournaments, and the arrangement is widely credited as a key factor in hockey’s revival in the country.

Why West Bengal Makes Sense for Indian Football Team

West Bengal has a deep footballing history. It is home to Kolkata’s historic clubs and the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, which recently hosted Brazil and Uruguay in the India friendlies. A state-backed sponsorship could bring steady funding to a national team that has long depended on a limited commercial base.

What to Watch

Key details are still unknown, including the sponsorship amount, the duration and whether it covers junior and women’s teams. Fans should wait for the Cabinet’s decision and an official confirmation from the AIFF.

For more Indian football updates, check out our Football section on TechnoSports.

Note: This is based on a social media report, and without any official confirmation.