Lucknow
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced plans to construct 18 football stadiums, one in each of the state’s 18 commissariats, to boost football in the region. Additionally, the state will develop 827 football grounds across various blocks to provide adequate facilities and encourage more tournaments.
At a Derby match in Lucknow, All India Football Federation President Kalyan Chaubey praised the swift response of the UP government. I met the Chief Minister on August 8 and expressed the need for a suitable stadium to host a Derby match in Lucknow. Remarkably, the UP government renovated the KD Singh Babu Stadium in just 19 days for this occasion, Chaubey said, highlighting the government’s commitment to football.
On Monday, the KD Singh Babu Stadium hosted its first Kolkata Derby in Lucknow, where Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated East Bengal FC 1(3)-1(2) on penalties, marking a historic event for the city.
Addressing the crowd, CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized the significance of hosting such a prestigious match in Lucknow. He noted the influence of the Khelo India initiative, driven by PM Narendra Modi, which has inspired UP to support sports development. Three weeks ago, Chaubey expressed a desire to popularize football in Uttar Pradesh, and with the state’s backing, this dream is becoming a reality,source he added.
