Mokokchung, 14th October 2026 (Nokinketer News): The Youth Resources and Sports Department, Government of Nagaland, has received the SKOCH Silver Award for its Grassroots Football Festival (Baby League), recognising its efforts to promote grassroots sports and encourage football participation among children.
Launched in June 2024, the annual initiative introduces children aged 5 to 12 years to football through age-appropriate matches in a fun and inclusive environment. Participation has grown from around 142 children in an earlier edition to approximately 420 in the third edition held in 2026.
Unlike conventional tournaments, the Baby League emphasises participation, enjoyment, learning and the overall development of children, while also providing opportunities to identify emerging football talent.
The initiative received national recognition when Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Nagaland’s grassroots football efforts during his Mann Ki Baat address in June 2026.
The department stated that the SKOCH Silver Award marks a significant milestone and will encourage further efforts to expand access to organised sports and strengthen a sporting culture among children across Nagaland.
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