Northeast Football League launched, State associations sign agreement

Thursday, Jan 22, 2026 05:30 [IST]

Last Update: Wednesday, Jan 21, 2026 23:49 [IST]

Northeast Football League launched, State associations sign agreement

GANGTOK,: A historic milestone was achieved for football in the North Eastern region as a Deed of Contract was signed between the State Football Associations of the North East and Japan-based firm Bestserv Inc. to launch the Northeast Football League.

The signing ceremony was held at Guwahati on Wednesday. The event was attended by Luis Nakawa, chairman and Josef Kovac, International Development Manager of Bestserv Inc., along with representatives from all eight State Football Associations of the North East.

Sikkim Football Association was represented in the agreement signing occasion by its president Menla Ethenpa and general secretary Phurba Sherpa, a press release informs.

The league aims to provide a suitable professional platform for players from the region while supporting State associations in becoming self-sustainable. This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening the football structure and creating long-term opportunities for local talent.

This partnership is instrumental to greatly boost the growth and development of football across the North East. The Northeast Football League will enhance competitive standards, nurture grassroots talent, and offer players exposure to professional football environments, paving the way for the region to emerge as a powerhouse of Indian football in the years to come, the release mentions.

Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi