Tributes Pour in for Former AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das
Kushal Das Passes Away at 66
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) expressed its sorrow over the death of Kushal Das, who served as the General Secretary from 2010 until 2022. Das passed away on Friday at the age of 66, leaving behind his wife and two sons.
Kushal Das's Professional Background
Kushal Das was a Chartered Accountant with a wealth of experience in sports management and administration. Early in his career, he worked with several international firms, including PwC, GSK, and Shell, as noted in a press release from AIFF Media.
In 1996, he became the Chief Financial Officer at IMG when the global sports marketing and television production company entered India. He later held the same position at the International Cricket Council in Dubai, further enhancing his credentials in international sports administration.
Achievements During His Tenure at AIFF
Das assumed the role of General Secretary of the AIFF in November 2010, a position he held for over a decade.
He played a pivotal role in organizing significant events and implementing structural changes that elevated the status of football in India. Notably, India hosted the 2017 FIFA U17 World Cup under his leadership. Additionally, the launch of the Indian Women's League in 2017 marked a significant advancement for women's football during his tenure.
Towards the conclusion of his time at AIFF, India successfully hosted major international competitions, including the 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup.
Tributes from AIFF Officials
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey remarked, "Kushal Das was instrumental in the administration and growth of Indian football during his time as General Secretary. His contributions will always be cherished. On behalf of the entire Indian football community, I extend my deepest condolences to his family during this challenging time. May he rest in peace."
AIFF Deputy Secretary General M. Satyanarayan added, "It is truly heartbreaking to learn of Mr. Das's passing. He was one of the longest-serving General Secretaries of the AIFF, with over 12 years of service. His tenure saw numerous changes and the establishment of several new departments at Football House. His loss creates a significant gap in sports administration. May he rest in peace."