However, the paradox in all this has been the Delhi Vision Programme, promoted in part by the AFC, and its failure to take off from the grassroots where it is supposed to scan for talent. Ironic as it may seem, the AIFF chief pointed out that the major draw back in the development of the football in the country is inadequate infrastructure. “We don’t have practice grounds, which is why the progress is not on expected lines,” he said.

With the AIFF headquartered in this state it is sad that there are no designated grounds around the city which can hold football programmes and matches unhindered the year round. The Ambedkar Stadium sees its yearly quota of political and not-so-political agendas worked out on the turf—which evidently destroys match possibilities till a good number of days after the event. And talking about practice fields, grounds that could be available are so far away from the city centre that regular programmes would be hindered.

The Delhi Vision Programme was launched in 2005 and it has stayed in that state so far. The grassroots programme apart, the main focus was gradual improvement of the club culture in the city, a league for schools and educating the physical trainer. Restructuring the administration of the Delhi Soccer Association (DSA), improving referees’ standards and updating coaches’ knowledge were other features of the programme. All that has not happened. Meanwhile, the federation has moved further away from the state.

Dasmunsi said the AIFF will focus on two main issues this year, including infrastructure and club culture. “We should have as many as possible good play grounds across the country so that overall standard of the game goes up,” he said.

For that, AIFF is discussing with various state governments and the defence ministry for the development of more playgrounds. “In the near future, the federation will have is own stadium. All state associations should also have one,” he said.