AIFF Commences FIFA-Backed AFC C Diploma Coaching Course for Women in Kolkata

The All India Football Federation (AIFF), in partnership with the FIFA Women's Development Programme Division, officially launched the AFC C Diploma Course for female coaches on September 1, 2026, at the National Centre of Excellence (NCE) in Kolkata. The 13-day intensive program, running until September 12, features 22 nominated female coaches from state associations across the Northern and Eastern regions of India. Fully funded under the FIFA Coach Education Scholarship Programme, the course is designed to equip candidates with technical knowledge, practical coaching experience, and tactical understanding necessary to nurture youth players at the grassroots level. Participants are assessed on theoretical understanding, practical session delivery, and match strategy. AIFF announced plans to follow this with a second edition later this year for candidates from Western and Southern India, aiming to qualify 42 to 44 female coaches with AFC C Licences by the end of 2026. This initiative represents a major step forward in establishing professional career pathways for women in Indian football and elevating youth development standards nationwide.