Odisha boy felicitated by Modi at FIFA World Cup ground

Bhubaneswar: Indian football team could have faced defeat in FIFA Under-17 World Cup against USA in the first tournament, Odisha cheered for its boy who was felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium before beginning of historical match on Friday in New Delhi.

Babul Sandil, an unknown face in Indian football, was the only participant from Odisha to receive World Cup Ball from Modi as an honour ahead of the FIFA event yesterday. He was among 11 players in ‘Mission 11 Million’ programme to have been recognised for boosting football among school children.

Being selected from second million team in ‘Mission 11 Million’ programme, Babul found opportunity to be awarded by Modi, who graced India’s opening game vs USA at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Babul’s sports teacher Ashok Patro was also part of the memorable moment visiting New Delhi.

Subham Sarangi from Odisha could have been disqualified to enter FIFA U-17 World Cup, but Babul brought glory for the State for his excellent performance in Mission 11 Million tournaments.

With the achievement, Babul, a class X student at IRC Village Boys’ High School in Bhubaneswar, is going to inspire entire tribal community in the Coastal Odisha.

Born to father Lakhman Sandil and mother Gita Sandil, Babul created his own identity at very little age in world of football after participating in Mission 11 Million programme, launched by the Centre to polularise and promote football taking the game to 12,000 schools in 37 cities across India.