India: Why a country of 1.4 billion is not in the football World Cup

India, with its population of 1.4 billion, remains absent from the FIFA World Cup, a surprising reality given the country's vast pool of potential talent. Despite the popularity of football in various regions, the sport struggles to compete with cricket, which dominates the Indian sports landscape. This imbalance in focus and resources has stunted the growth of football at both grassroots and professional levels, leaving India lagging behind in international competitions. Efforts to bolster Indian football have been ongoing, with investments in infrastructure and the establishment of leagues like the Indian Super League (ISL). These initiatives aim to nurture local talent and increase the sport's visibility. However, challenges such as inadequate training facilities and limited access to high-quality coaching continue to hinder progress. As a result, the national team struggles to compete against more established football nations, keeping them out of the global spotlight. To change this trajectory, experts suggest a multifaceted approach: enhancing youth development programs, increasing government support, and fostering a football culture nationwide. By addressing these areas, India hopes to build a competitive national team capable of qualifying for future World Cups. While the journey is long and complex, the passion for football in India fuels optimism for a breakthrough on the world stage.

— Authored by Next24 Live