Sikkim’s Pride on the Continental Stage

An Insight into our footprint in Indian Football

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The image of enthusiastic young footballers applauding and celebrating alongside the Prime Minister symbolizes the power of sport to unite people across generations. For the children on the field, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For the football community of Sikkim, it was a validation of years of dedication toward developing the sport at the grassroots level.

Sikkim has long been recognized as a football-loving state. From local village tournaments to national-level competitions, football is deeply woven into the social and cultural fabric of the region. The state's contribution to Indian football continues to grow, producing talented players, coaches, and administrators who have represented Sikkim with distinction.

The Prime Minister's engagement with football sent a strong message about the importance of sports in nation-building. His participation encouraged young athletes to dream bigger, work harder, and pursue excellence both on and off the field. Such moments inspire confidence and motivate the next generation to believe that their efforts can lead them to national and international success.

For the Sikkim Football Association, this was a proud milestone. It showcased the progress made in promoting football and reinforced the state's reputation as one of India's strongest footballing regions. The event also highlighted the need for continued investment in youth development, coaching education, infrastructure, and grassroots programs.

As Sikkim Football continues its journey forward, this historic moment will serve as a reminder of what can be achieved when passion, opportunity, and national support come together. The sight of young footballers sharing the field with the Prime Minister was not just a photograph it was a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the bright future of football in Sikkim.

For Sikkim Football, it was more than a proud moment; it was a historic milestone that reaffirmed the state's place on the national football map.

Our Footprint in Indian Football

Equally significant is the contribution of Dr. Yashna Chettri, whose expertise and commitment to sports medicine will be instrumental in ensuring the players remain fit, healthy, and ready to perform at their best.

Together, Ms. Abhista Basnett and Dr. Yashna Chettri exemplify the growing contribution of Sikkim to Indian football, both on and off the pitch. Their achievements stand as a source of immense pride for the state and a powerful reminder that Sikkim continues to produce talent capable of excelling at the highest levels of the game.

The Sikkim Football Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Abhista Basnett and Dr. Yashna Chettri on this remarkable accomplishment. As they embark on this prestigious journey with Team India, we wish them and the entire Indian squad the very best for a successful and memorable AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 campaign.

Football in Sikkim has witnessed many memorable moments over the years, but few can compare to the pride and excitement generated by the visit of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his participation in a football activity alongside young footballers.

The occasion was far more than a ceremonial event. It represented national recognition of football's growing importance in Sikkim and highlighted the tremendous potential of the state's young athletes. As the Prime Minister stepped onto the football field, interacting with budding players and sharing in the joy of the game, it created a moment that will remain etched in the memories of everyone present.

A Historic Day for Sikkim Football

Prime Minister's Participation Inspires a Generation

As anticipation builds for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026, a moment of immense pride shines brightly for Sikkim. Among the 23-member Indian contingent that has arrived in Suzhou, China, two distinguished professionals from the Himalayan state have earned the honour of representing the nation on one of Asia’s biggest football stages.

Ms. Abista Basnett and Dr. Yashna Chettri are proudly representing Sikkim on the continental stage as part of the Indian contingent for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Suzhou, China. While Abista Basnett leads the Indian squad as captain on the field, Dr. Yashna Chettri played a vital role behind the scenes as the team physiotherapist.

Abista’s selection to the national squad and her appointment as captain are a testament to her exceptional talent, leadership qualities, hard work, and dedication to the sport. As she leads India onto one of Asia’s biggest football stages, she carries with her the aspirations of countless young footballers from Sikkim and serves as an inspiration to the next generation of athletes.