Securing Futures, Celebrating Diversity: Generali Central Insurance partners with Sikkim Football Association to support Senior Women’s Football League 2026
Gangtok, February 17, 2026: Generali Central Insurance, a joint venture between global insurance major Generali and Central Bank of India, has announced its partnership with Sikkim Football Association as the Title Sponsor for the Senior Women’s Football League 2026, to be organised across the state. The league, which commences on February 24th, 2026, will witness participation from top clubs across Sikkim, Darjeeling and Siliguri. Women footballers from six clubs including Gangtok Himalayan Sporting Club (Sikkim); Singling Sporting Club (Soreng), Sikkim; Northereners Football (Mangan), Sikkim; Darjeeling XI; Chijachen Sports Academy (Sikkim); and Milan More Football Academy (Siliguri), will take part in the league, which is aimed to serve as a critical bridge in the Grassroots to League Pathway.
The move, which aligns with the company’s core philosophy of ensuring DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) in every step of the way, would go a long way in professionalising women’s sports in the region.
By providing necessary financial support through this sponsorship, the company aims to provide an impetus to the league elevating it to national standards and creating a sustainable ecosystem for women athletes in the region. With growing national attention on women’s sports and India’s expanding participation in international competitions, state-level leagues are critical to building depth in the talent pipeline.
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Menla Ethenpa, President, Sikkim Football Association, said, “The hills of Sikkim have resounded with the sound of football but unfortunately the going has been fairly tough for women athletes of the State. Generali Central Insurance coming on board as a Title Sponsor for the Senior Women’s League marks a defining moment for women’s football in the region. This league is not just a tournament, it is a platform of opportunity, confidence and visibility for women athletes.”
Commenting on the association, Mr. Anup Rau, MD & CEO, Generali Central Insurance, said, “As the lead insurer for Sikkim, our commitment goes beyond providing financial security. In line with our Lifetime Partner approach, we are committed towards furthering the social and developmental priorities of the State. Supporting the Senior Women’s Football League in Sikkim aligns with our broader strategy of investing in platforms that foster inclusion, talent development, and long-term growth. By strengthening women’s football at the state level, we are contributing to a more diverse and sustainable future for Indian sports. We are investing in a long-term ecosystem that nurtures talent, builds confidence, and opens doors for young women to represent India.”
Speaking about the initiative, Ms. Ruchika Varma, Chief Marketing, Customer & Impact Officer, Generali Central Insurance, said, “At Generali Central Insurance, DEI is not about checking boxes - it is a growth philosophy for us. With 1% of our workforce comprising persons with disabilities and 20% representation of women across the organisation, we at GCI are setting a new standard for accessibility and inclusive growth. Supporting women in sport aligns naturally with our belief that access to opportunity must be equal. Through our various DEI initiatives, we have focused on expanding representation, enabling leadership pathways, and supporting women’s ambition across sectors. Partnering with the Senior Women’s Football League in Sikkim brings that commitment to life on the field. It gives visibility to talent, creates aspiration at the grassroots, and reinforces our belief that when women are empowered, communities thrive.”
About Generali Central Insurance Company Limited
Generali Central Insurance Company Limited (formerly known as Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited) is a strategic joint venture between two distinguished financial institutions: the Generali Group, a global insurance enterprise with 193 years of operational heritage holding a 74% majority stake, and the Central Bank of India, India's first commercial bank with 113 years of established banking excellence. Established in 2006, the Company was set up with a clear mandate to offer retail, commercial, personal, and rural insurance solutions, enabling individuals and businesses to effectively manage and mitigate risks. Generali Central Insurance (GCI) broke even in FY 2013-14 - a landmark achievement in just six years of operations. As of FY 2024-25, GCI maintains robust financial fundamentals with ₹7,938 crore of assets under management and Gross Written Premium of ₹5,547.5 crore. The Company has established itself as a formidable presence in India's insurance landscape, securing a position among the nation's top 10 private general insurance companies. GCI has consistently demonstrated excellence in organisational culture and operational performance - receiving the ‘Great Place to Work’ certification seven times in a row. The Company has also earned numerous industry accolades including the Emvies Awards 2025, The Economic Times Brand Disruption Awards 2025, ET Trendies 2025, ET Now Global Innovation Network Awards, and the Di-Verse Certification for Disability Inclusion in 2025.
