In collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the Union Ministry of Education has successfully implemented the Football for Schools (F4S) program in Odisha. This initiative, launched by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on December 2, 2023, aims to enhance football accessibility for students in schools, irrespective of gender, by seamlessly integrating football-related activities into the educational system.

The F4S program has achieved a significant milestone by distributing 6,848 footballs to 1,260 schools across 17 districts of Odisha as of February 9. This distribution is part of a larger nationwide effort, with over 11 lakh FIFA footballs set to be distributed in a phased manner to 1.50 lakh schools throughout the country.

The overarching goal of the program is not only to provide access to the sport but also to cultivate a sense of enthusiasm for football among students. The integration of football-related activities into the school curriculum is envisioned as a means to establish a lasting sports culture that extends beyond individual schools.

Through strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, the F4S program seeks to create a comprehensive framework for promoting football at the grassroots level. The distribution of footballs to schools in Odisha is a tangible step toward achieving this broader objective, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and physical activity among students.

The success of the F4S program in Odisha underscores the commitment of the Union Ministry of Education, AIFF, and FIFA to promoting sports education and creating opportunities for students to engage in physical activities that contribute to their overall development.

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