Shillong, Jan 20: The eight states of the North East, under the umbrella of the North East Football Development Council, signed an agreement in Guwahati this evening with a private firm to launch the North East Premier League.
The Meghalaya Football Association was represented at the event by its President, Hamletson Dohling.
The deed of contract is for 10 years, with the league aiming to provide a suitable professional platform for players from the region while supporting state associations in becoming self-sustainable.
Representing Bestserv, a Japanese company, were its Chairman, Luis Nakawa, and International Development Manager Josef Kovac.
Although there were few other details provided in a press release issued at the event, but a 2024 meeting of the NEFDC in Shillong suggested that it would operate on a franchise model with a youth element.
TSR also recently heard that there will be three venues for the league, at least in the first season.
“The North East of India is one of the richest regions in the country in terms of football culture, talent, passion, and identity. For decades, this region has produced players, supporters, and strong football traditions, but it has not had a league structure that truly reflects its potential. NEPL is designed to change that. It is not a short-term tournament or an experimental project, but a stable, long-term professional football ecosystem,” Nakawa said.
Addressing reporters, Kipa Ajay, Secretary General of the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association, Treasurer of the All India Football Federation and General Secretary of the NEFDC, spoke about shared philosophy.
“The North East Premier League is built around people — our players, clubs, supporters, and local communities. This launch reflects our shared commitment to work together with federations, clubs, partners, and stakeholders to create a strong and professional football ecosystem in the region,” he said.
(Photo contributed)