Mankind Pharma Backs India’s Football Future Through Partnership with Minerva Academy
By Suman Munshi | IBG NEWS
Mumbai, July 20, 2026: In a significant boost to grassroots football in India, Mankind Pharma has entered into a strategic partnership with Minerva Academy Football Club, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing young sporting talent and supporting India’s long-term football ambitions.
As part of the collaboration, the Mankind Pharma logo will be displayed on both the front and back of the jerseys worn by three of Minerva Academy’s youth teams. These squads will represent the academy in prestigious domestic and international football tournaments over the coming year, giving the partnership visibility on some of the world’s leading youth football stages.
Strengthening India’s Football Foundation
The collaboration reflects a growing trend of Indian corporate houses investing in sports beyond cricket. By supporting one of the country’s most accomplished football academies, Mankind Pharma aims to encourage talented youngsters to pursue football professionally while contributing to the development of the sport at the grassroots level.
Founded in 2015 by football promoter Ranjit Bajaj, Minerva Academy has rapidly emerged as one of India’s premier football training institutions. The academy achieved global recognition after winning the 2025 Gothia Cup in Sweden, earning the title of World Youth Champions. Over the years, it has produced more than 240 international footballers across various age categories.
Adding to its growing list of achievements, Minerva’s Under-12 team, representing India, captured both the 2026 Gothia Cup (B-12 category) and the 2026 Helsinki Cup, further establishing the academy’s reputation on the international stage.
At the heart of the academy’s vision is its ambitious “World Cup Batch 2034” initiative, designed to prepare a generation of footballers capable of helping India qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
Leadership Speaks
Rajeev Juneja, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Mankind Pharma, said the company’s commitment extends beyond healthcare to supporting initiatives that strengthen the nation.
He noted that football instills values such as discipline, teamwork, dedication, and ambition among young athletes, adding that Minerva Academy has demonstrated the global potential of Indian footballers. According to him, the company is proud to support these emerging players as they compete internationally and represent India’s aspirations.
Expressing appreciation for the partnership, Minerva Academy Founder and Director Ranjit Bajaj described the support as timely and significant for Indian football. He said backing from a leading Indian company would help young players access better training, international exposure, and high-level competition while bringing the academy closer to its dream of seeing India compete in the FIFA World Cup.
Encouraging Football Beyond Cricket
Although cricket continues to dominate India’s sporting landscape, football has witnessed rapid growth in popularity over the past decade. Industry observers believe that corporate investment in youth academies can play a crucial role in building a stronger football ecosystem by improving infrastructure, training opportunities, and international exposure for promising players.
Through this initiative, Mankind Pharma hopes to inspire more children and young athletes to view football as a viable career while supporting the broader development of the sport across the country.
About Mankind Pharma
Mankind Pharma is among India’s leading pharmaceutical companies with a strong nationwide presence across pharmaceutical formulations and consumer healthcare products. The company manufactures a broad portfolio covering acute and chronic therapies, including cardiovascular, diabetes, gastrointestinal, respiratory, anti-infective, neurological, and women’s healthcare segments.
Following the acquisition of Bharat Serums and Vaccines Limited, the company has further strengthened its position in women’s healthcare. With more than 18,500 field professionals, a network reaching over five lakh doctors, 32 manufacturing facilities, and seven research and development centres supported by over 740 scientists, Mankind Pharma continues to focus on delivering affordable healthcare solutions while expanding innovation and research capabilities.
