The rules of women’s football in India are consistent with the regulations set by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) and are governed domestically by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Here are the key rules and regulations:

Field of Play

Dimensions: The field length ranges from 90 to 120 meters and the width from 45 to 90 meters. 

Goal Area: 5.5 meters from each goalpost and 5.5 meters into the field.

Penalty Area: 16.5 meters from each goalpost and 16.5 meters into the field.

Goalposts: 7.32 meters wide and 2.44 meters high.

The Ball

Size and Weight: A standard size 5 ball weighing between 410 to 450 grams.

The Players

Team Size: Each team consists of 11 players, including one goalkeeper.

Substitutions: Up to 5 substitutions are allowed in official competitions. In some tournaments, more substitutions may be allowed.

Equipment

Uniform: Includes a jersey, shorts, socks, shin guards, and cleats.

Goalkeeper: Must wear a different color jersey from the rest of the team and the opponents.

Match Duration

Duration: Two halves of 45 minutes each, with a 15-minute halftime break.

Added Time: Additional time added at the end of each half to compensate for stoppages.

Start and Restart of Play

Kick-off: Starts the match and restarts play after a goal.

Throw-in: Used to restart play when the ball goes out of bounds on the sides.

Goal Kick: Used to restart play when the ball goes out of bounds over the goal line, last touched by an attacker.

Corner Kick: Used to restart play when the ball goes out of bounds over the goal line, last touched by a defender.

Scoring

Goal: A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line between the goalposts and beneath the crossbar.

Offside

Offside Position: A player is in an offside position if they are nearer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent.

Offside Offence: A player is penalized for being offside if, at the moment the ball is played to them, they are actively involved in the play.

Fouls and Misconduct

Direct Free Kick: Awarded for serious fouls such as kicking, tripping, and handball.

Indirect Free Kick: Awarded for less severe infringements like dangerous play or offside.

Penalty Kick: Awarded for a direct free kick offense within the penalty area.

Yellow Card: Issued for cautionable offenses.

Red Card: Issued for serious foul play, violent conduct, or receiving a second yellow card.

Conduct and Discipline

Fair Play: Players must respect opponents, officials, and the spirit of the game.

Disciplinary Actions: Misconduct can lead to warnings, fines, suspensions, or other penalties.

Officials

Referee: Enforces the laws of the game, makes decisions on fouls and misconduct, and keeps time.

Assistant Referees: Assist the referee in decisions, especially regarding offside and out-of-bounds.

Fourth Official: Manages substitutions and assists with administrative tasks.

Domestic Competitions

Tournaments: Various national tournaments like the Indian Women’s League (IWL), Senior Women’s National Football Championship, and state leagues.

League Play: The IWL is the top-tier league, following international rules and providing a platform for professional women’s football in India

These rules ensure the game is played fairly and maintains the competitive spirit, fostering the growth of women’s football in India.