Itanagar, May 3: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Friday welcomed India’s 25-member squad and their coaches to Itanagar for the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Championship 2025. The event was also attended by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Manish Gupta.

Addressing the gathering, Mein expressed his happiness over the State hosting the regional football tournament and highlighted Arunachal’s commitment to promoting sports. He said the successful organisation of the Santosh Trophy in Itanagar last year and the current championship reflect the State’s growing sporting environment and improved infrastructure for nurturing young talent.

Mein extended a warm welcome to all participating teams from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan. He conveyed his best wishes to all players and encouraged them to compete with zeal and uphold the spirit of the game.

Also present at the ceremony were Sports Secretary Abu Tayeng, AIFF Treasurer and Arunachal Football Association Secretary General Kipa Ajay, Head Coach Bibiano Fernandes, and executive members of the Arunachal Football Association.