West Bengal Hosts First-Ever Pro India School Futsal Development League

Sayak Banerjee / 23-04-2025

For the first time, the Pro India School Futsal Development League has been launched in West Bengal. At a press conference held at Kolkata’s Spring Club, league founder Aparup Chakraborty shared details. A pioneer of grassroots futsal since 2014, he announced participation from 227 schools. Targeting children aged 8–12, the initiative aims to reach remote areas free of cost and is officially recognized by the IFA.
India’s national futsal team coach, Joshua Vaz, has already joined as technical consultant for Aparup’s Futsal School. The league has kicked off in East and West Midnapore and will expand to 22 districts, running in a knockout format year-round. Though officially named “AIFF Blue Cubs League,” it is being conducted under the banner of the Pro India School Futsal Development League.
Distinguished guests included former Mohun Bagan secretary Srinjoy Bose, who praised the initiative as a much-needed professional step. Bengal Olympic Association President Chandan Raychowdhury expressed hope that futsal would one day gain Olympic recognition. IFA Chairman Subrata Dutta described the effort as “original and exemplary” and pledged full support. Chief Coordinator of Midnapore, Chandicharan Samanta, wished the initiative success.