The Hindu Business Line : Industry must promote football: FIFA chief

WOOING THE CAPTAINS: The FIFA President, Mr Joseph Sepp Blatter, and the CII Vice-President, Mr Sunil Bharti Mittal, at a luncheon session with businessmen organised by CII in the Capital on Monday. — Kamal Narang

New Delhi April 16 Mr Joseph Sepp Blatter, President of the world's apex football body Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), said FIFA wants to present India as a football loving nation.

While speaking at a meeting organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry, Mr Blatter said, "Industry and football have a wonderful opportunity to bring Indian football to the world playing level".

It would be great to see India participating in a world cup and FIFA can proactively assist in the development of a sporting India role, said Mr Blatter.

FIFA membership and its affiliated association is proud to touch a population of almost one billion where 250 million people are active participants from 208 countries, including 50 million women, he added.

"India is becoming a strong economical power and it is visible in the international perception. The same should be reflected in the spirit of professionalism and development of football in the country," said Mr Blatter.

Mr Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi, President of All-India Football Federation, urged India Inc to come forward and extend support to the sport.

Mr Sunil Bharti Mittal, Vice-President of the chamber, said that India is at the cusp of transforming from a cricketing nation to a sporting nation. The Indian industry will take interest in the development of football in India and told the audience to expect a major initiative announcement very soon.

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