The NFL was eventually replaced by the I-League for the 2007–08 season in order to professionalize the sport in India.

JCT Mills of Punjab won the inaugural season of the league.

Then Indian international Bhaichung Bhutia was the league's top goalscorer with 14 goals.

[5] In 2001, in order to help promote the development of young Indian players, the AIFF launched the under-19 league.

[6] In July 2003, East Bengal made history for the NFL when they won the 2003 ASEAN Club Championship, becoming the first Indian side to win an Asian level competition.