Union minister for Development of North Eastern region (DoNER) and chairman, North East Council (NEC) Paban Singh Ghatowar Saturday said that the proposal by Centre to set up world class football academy in Manipur has been considered.

Addressing the inaugural function of a three-day seminar on the Development of Sports in NE states at the Manipur Film Development Corporation (MFDC) auditorium, Palace Compound, Ghatowar said “We are currently considering the proposal” of setting up a football academy.

He announced that his ministry is also willing to open a boxing academy in the state, a proposal which was made earlier by Olympics Bronze medalist MC Mary Kom.

Centre has acknowledged the contribution of the sportspersons of the state to India, he said and lauded other Manipuri players who had represented the country in the recently concluded London Olympics.

NEC has been encouraging the players of the region and incentives and awards NEC Chairman’s Sports Award for Excellence on International and National Sportsmen/women of NE Region.

Ghatowar will conclude his three-day visit tomorrow evening. Before concluding his visit he is scheduled to visit to Moreh, the border town of Manipur at the border with Mayanmar tomorrow to inspect infrastructures being developed for international trade there.