The Governor of Mizoram, Hari Babu Kambhapati, met with representatives of Aizawl Football Club, including MLA Robert Romawia Royte, president of Aizawl FC, and Hmingthansanga Zadeng, General Secretary at Aizawl Raj Bhavan Friday.
It was mentioned by the representatives of Aizawl FC that Rs 546.90 lakh was sanctioned by the Power Finance Corporation(PFC) under its CSR Initiative for laying of astroturf at Aizawl FC Ground,N.Lungleng and agreement to this effect was signed on 11th October 2023.
They also informed the Governor that the Mizoram State Sports Council (MSSC) was appointed as the implementing agency. Although the agreement was signed on 11 October 2023, work could not commence then due to the operation of Election Model Code of Conduct during the tenure of the previous government.
The management of Aizawl FC shared the Governor of their gratitude and indebtedness to PFC for their financial commitment and assured reciprocal determination from the club for successful execution of the project.
The Aizawl FC representatives expressed their concern due to MSSC’s inaction and lack of initiative and progress on the project.They also informed the Governor of the strongly worded letter being sent to MSSC by PFC for its failure to initiate implementation during the last 11 months.
The club Leaders told the Governor that cancellation/withdrawal may happen if no positive action is taken apprpriately.The meeting also discussed various options including change of Agency for the project.
The club management also shared their convergent plans to cover works items not covered by CSR fund of Rs 546.90 lakh through contributions from the Rajya Sabha MP Fund,the NECS(club’s parent company) and
other funding sources they are currently pursuing. They emphasized that their efforts aim to continue support to the football cadets under Aizawl FC,the community in the area and empower the youth of Mizoram. The Governor assured the club of his full support for these initiatives.
In the meantime, the Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has raised concerns about lack of cooperation from the MSSC, which has left them uncertain about the future of AFC projects and contemplating possibility of withdrawal of the sanction.
The Aizawl FC management has already discussed the matter with the Sports Minister and is seeking a meeting with the Chief Minister to further advance their request.
(Northeast, Northeast News)
