ITANAGAR, 11 Oct: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday announced that a 30,000-seat stadium, estimated to cost Rs 300 crore, has been sanctioned in Hollongi, with construction expected to begin within a month, as he declared open the second edition of the Indrajit Namchoom Arunachal League (INAL) 2026 at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Khandu said the ambitious infrastructure project would provide a major boost to the state's sporting ecosystem and create greater opportunities for aspiring athletes.
"A 30,000-seat stadium, worth approximately Rs 300 crore, has been sanctioned in Hollongi. The tender process is complete, and construction work is expected to begin within the next month," the chief minister announced.
Describing the project as an investment in the future of sports, Khandu said the government is committed to nurturing young talent by providing modern infrastructure and competitive opportunities.
"The second edition of the Indrajit Namchoom Arunachal League is here, bigger in ambition and stronger in purpose. And a big sporting dream needs big infrastructure," he said.
"We believe in our youths. We believe in their talent. And we are determined to give them the facilities and opportunities they deserve," Khandu added.
Meanwhile, the state's premier football competition got off to an exciting start with FC Xiga United registering a 1-0 victory over defending champions Capital Complex FC in the opening encounter.
The tournament features 10 franchise clubs from across Arunachal Pradesh, with 60 matches scheduled between 10 October and 6 December. All fixtures will be played at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia.
The top eight teams from the initial round-robin stage will qualify for the next phase of the competition.
In another significant development, JioHotstar has come on board as the league's official streaming partner, allowing football enthusiasts across the country to watch the matches live and providing a wider platform for emerging footballers from Arunachal.
Named in honour of the state's football pioneer Indrajit Namchoom, the league aims to strengthen grassroots football, promote sporting excellence and provide promising local players with greater exposure to competitive football at the national level.
