Youth Innovation Drives India's Development: AIFF President Speaks in Kolkata

In Kolkata, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey emphasized the importance of youth innovation for India's development during the 'Seva Sankalp Seva First Innovation Challenge'. This initiative coincides with the celebration of Prime Minister Modi's 25 years of service. The event also highlights upcoming international football friendlies featuring Brazil and Uruguay against India. As the nation gears up for these matches, the focus remains on harnessing the creativity of young minds to drive progress and achieve a developed India. Read on to discover more about this initiative and the exciting football events ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 19, 2026, 23:54 IST

AIFF President Emphasizes Youth Innovation

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 19: Kalyan Chaubey, the president of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), underscored the significance of youth innovation in propelling India's growth during an event for the 'Seva Sankalp Seva First Innovation Challenge East Zone' held in Kolkata.

Chaubey remarked, “In celebration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years of service, the nation is participating in the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'. A vital aspect of this initiative is the 'Seva First Innovation Challenge', which involves young individuals, including students from top institutions, who are creating startups and innovative solutions aimed at benefiting the country.”

He further noted, “Investments totaling around Rs 60,000 crore have been directed towards approximately 1,000 institutions, including IITs and various engineering colleges. We are dedicated to leveraging the creativity and innovative thinking of our youth to advance India's development and achieve the vision of a Viksit Bharat.”

The 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' commenced on September 17, coinciding with Prime Minister Modi's 76th birthday, and is set to run for a month. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari previously announced this campaign in the state, which encompasses public service and welfare initiatives to honor Modi's birthday and his 25 years in public service.

In other news, Kolkata is gearing up to host two international football friendlies in October, featuring Brazil, the five-time world champions, and Uruguay, the two-time champions, at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, also known as Salt Lake Stadium.

Brazil will compete against India on October 3, followed by Uruguay facing India on October 6 at the same venue.

Uruguay, a highly decorated team in international football, currently holds the 20th position in the FIFA world rankings. Their head coach, Diego Forlan, previously played for Mumbai City FC in 2016.

The arrival of Brazil and Uruguay enhances India's international football calendar, which will also see Panama participating during the same FIFA window.

India's senior men's team is set to play against Panama in an international friendly at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on September 25.

This match will mark India's return to Bengaluru following their successful SAFF Championship 2023 campaign, where the Blue Tigers clinched the title on home ground by defeating Kuwait in the final at the same venue. The tournament received enthusiastic support from local fans, with significant attendance throughout the event.