MARGAO
All India Football Federation (AIFF) Executive Committee member Valanka Alemao shared her experiences at the FIFA Plenary Session held in Doha, Qatar, where she highlighted India’s progress in women’s football on a global platform.
Alemao, the first woman to be appointed to the AIFF Executive Committee, Chairperson of the AIFF Women’s Football Development Committee, and a Member of the FIFA Women’s Football Development Committee, represented India at the prestigious gathering.
Addressing the session, she informed delegates about the Indian women’s teams qualifying for the final rounds of the AFC Women’s Championships in all three categories — Seniors, Under-20 and Under-17 — calling it a significant milestone for the country.
Expressing pride in representing India at the highest levels of football administration, Alemao said it was a unique and humbling opportunity to interact with FIFA officials, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafström. FIFA Women’s Football Development Committee Chairperson Laura Georges of France and other committee members were also present.
Alemao described her experience at the FIFA Best Player Awards night as truly inspiring. “It was a moment of pride and joy to represent my country at the highest levels of football. Meeting representatives who define passion and unwavering commitment towards football — the most popular sport on the planet — was unforgettable,” she said.
She added that the exposure and interactions would help her perform her responsibilities in India more effectively. Alemao emphasised that such international engagement should be widely publicised to inspire young footballers and encourage more women to take up administrative roles in Indian football.
“It was a memorable experience, and it will certainly enable me to serve Indian football better,” Alemao concluded.
