Panaji: Football-crazy Goa has taken the sport to a new pitch altogether.

Presenting his first budget after coming to power, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar proposed that football will be declared as the official sport of Goa.

"I propose that football be made the official sport of Goa," Parrikar said.

"A Goa state football development council will be set up under the chairmanship of renowned cardiologist Rufino Monteiro, who is also a football enthusiast. A grant of Rs.5 crore has been set aside and, if required, additional grants will be provided," Parrikar said.

Goa has several football clubs like Dempo Sports Club, Salgaocar Sports Club, and Churchill Brothers, which have made it to the top of the national football league consistently. (IANS)