Youth football receives a boost as Mankind Pharma backs Minerva Academy

Mankind Pharma has partnered with Minerva Academy Football Club, with its logo set to appear on the jerseys of three age group teams competing in India and overseas, while Rajeev Juneja, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, highlighted the company’s support for young sporting talent.

Mankind Pharma has partnered with Minerva Academy Football Club to support youth football in India, extending its commitment to the development of emerging sporting talent beyond cricket.
As part of the partnership, the Mankind Pharma logo will feature on the front and back of the jerseys worn by three of Minerva Academy’s age group teams during domestic and international competitions over the coming year.
Founded in 2015 by Ranjit Bajaj, Minerva Academy has established itself as one of India’s leading grassroots football institutions. The academy won the Gothia Cup World Youth Championship in 2025 and has produced more than 240 international footballers across different age groups.

The academy has continued its recent success with its Under 12 team, representing India, winning both the Gothia Cup B 12 and the Helsinki Cup in 2026. Its long term objective is to contribute towards India’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup through its World Cup Batch 2034 programme.
Rajeev Juneja, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mankind Pharma, said, “At Mankind Pharma, our purpose has always extended beyond medicine to the wellbeing of the nation. Football builds discipline, teamwork and ambition in our young people, and Minerva Academy has shown the world what Indian talent can achieve. We are proud to stand behind these teams as they carry the country’s hopes onto the global stage.”

Ranjit Bajaj, Founder and Director, Minerva Academy Football Club, said, “This backing from Mankind Pharma comes at a defining moment for Indian football. Support from a homegrown leader allows our players to train, travel and compete with the very best, and brings us one step closer to our dream of seeing India at the FIFA World Cup. We are grateful for their belief in our young footballers.”
According to the company, the partnership reflects its commitment to encouraging greater participation in football by supporting young athletes and creating opportunities for emerging talent to compete at national and international levels.

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