AIFF launches Platinum Jubilee (75th anniversary) celebrations

The All India Football Federation turned 75 today on Saturday, June 23. It was on this day in Shimla in 1937 that the All India Football Federation was founded. The Football Federation commemorated the occasion by launching the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations at the AIFF Headquarters, the Football House in Dwarka, New Delhi. The celebrations continue till June 22, 2013.

Former India Captain and legendary footballer Chuni Goswami unfurled the flag to mark the beginning of the celebrations besides also unveiling the AIFF's Platinum Jubilee logo. The AIFF Senior Vice-Presidents A.R. Khaleel and Subrata Dutta were also present as were Hardev Jadeja, Ankur Dutta, Tempo Bhutia and Sunil Bharadwaj besides General Secretary Kushal Das, but the AIFF president Praful Patel was not present on the occasion.

AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das looked back the path travelled so far. "It is a momentous day for all football lovers. The AIFF which was launched in 1937 is now 75 years old. We stay proud of our history," he said.

He also stressed on the future plans ahead. "AIFF has big plans for the development of football specially the launch of Youth Academies which will go a long way in improving and developing the game in India," he added.

AIFF President Praful Patel in his message said, "It is indeed a great occasion that we are 75 years old. I am sure that with the programme undertaken in the Platinum Jubilee year we will go a long way in creating the right impetus to take Indian football to the next level in due course."

Chuni Goswami also lauded the AIFF over the recent appointment of foreign coaches. "I need to mention that AIFF has brought in quality coaching staff in all age groups. It's up to the Indian Coaches who work with them to learn the finer points of the trade," he commented.

On the occasion a short documentary film 'Glory of Indian Football’ was screened at the Football House.

Besides, Chuni Goswami was presented a bouquet of flowers by A.R. Khaleel, Subrata Dutta, Ankur Datta and Hardev Jadeja. Kushal Das presented Chuni Goswami a memento and Subrata Dutta presented him with a shawl.

The Military Pipe Band of Rajputana Rifles performed on the occasion with 'Saare Jahan se Accha' played in honour of the guests. The AIFF staff were also present on the occasion besides the media.