The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has proposed setting up a world-class women’s football academy at the Rajgir Sports Complex in Bihar. This facility aims to provide high-level scientific training to Indian women’s teams and host 12 international matches annually. The Bihar government is currently studying the proposal to boost the football culture and infrastructure in the state, ensuring players receive better match opportunities.
What facilities will the new football academy provide?
The proposed academy will focus on providing scientific training to female athletes to prepare them for global competitions. The All India Football Federation will help identify talent across various districts of Bihar and provide professional coaching to selected players. To improve the standard of the game, AIFF will conduct Level D, C, and B coaching courses within the state. There are also plans to hold workshops for local referees to train them according to international standards. This initiative is expected to create a professional environment and increase the confidence of local players.
Key details of the Rajgir Sports Complex and the project
The Bihar government has already invested significantly in sports infrastructure, specifically in the Rajgir area. The project details and historical context of sports development in Bihar are as follows:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | International Women’s Football Academy |
| Location | Rajgir Sports Complex, Bihar |
| Proposed Matches | 12 International matches annually |
| Complex Construction Cost | Approximately 750 to 850 Crore Rupees |
| Complex Inauguration | 29 August 2024 by CM Nitish Kumar |
| Technical Partner | All India Football Federation (AIFF) |
| Department Formation | Separate Sports Department formed on 9 January 2024 |
Director of the State Sports Academy, Ravindran Sankaran, mentioned that the plan is under study and a decision will be taken soon. This academy is viewed as a construction site for the future of sports in Bihar, where players will receive international-level facilities and training. The state previously hosted the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November 2024, showing its growing capacity to hold major sports events.
