Shantinagar MLA and Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) chairman N.A. Haris has been appointed vice‑president of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), marking a new milestone in his long association with the sport.

For Haris, football has been a passion since his college days, well before his entry into politics. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a committed football administrator, working to strengthen the sport’s presence in Karnataka and beyond. His new role at SAFF will allow him to contribute to football development across South Asia.

Haris said his focus will be on creating a stronger pathway from grassroots football to competitive levels, ensuring young talent gets the right opportunities to shine. His appointment is seen as a boost for regional football, as SAFF continues its efforts to raise standards and expand the sport’s reach in countries including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

With his dual experience in governance and sports administration, Haris is expected to play a key role in shaping policies that nurture talent and promote football as a unifying force across the region.