New Delhi: More than 1,200 primary-school children have registered for MCD’s first mini football league, which combines a 35-minute match format for young players with a ₹1 lakh prize for each winning team.
The MCD Mini Football League 2026 opened on Saturday at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Stadium at Delhi Gate. Organised by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi in collaboration with SITDS, the competition includes boys and girls in the under-9 and under-11 age groups, with more than 120 teams registered, according to the civic body.
Shorter matches for under-9 and under-11 players
MCD Education Committee chairman Yogesh Verma said matches would have two 15-minute halves and a five-minute break, taking account of the children’s age and physical capacity. Each winning team will receive ₹1 lakh, he said.
South Zone defeated Central Zone in the opening girls’ match.
Mayor links league to reducing screen time
Mayor Pravesh Wahi said the education department’s initiative aimed to move children away from mobile screens and onto playing fields, while developing discipline, teamwork and leadership.
Wahi, who said he had himself studied in a municipal school, described the league as an opportunity to develop sporting talent from the grassroots. He said kabaddi, kho-kho, table tennis and cricket would be added to the league next year.
The mayor linked the initiative to the Khelo India vision and the National Education Policy, and said it had been launched under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s guidance. He also urged residents to use the facilities offered by municipal schools and hospitals.
Wahi thanked the event’s sponsors and partners, including State Bank of India, Indian Railway Finance Corporation, Punjab National Bank, Nivia, Delhi Soccer Association and Sports Apna.
Municipal Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar, Verma, senior MCD officials and other guests attended the opening ceremony.
