The FPAI was established in 2006 by the national team players to protect and safeguard their interest out the field. It is safe to say the Association has grown in leap and bounds over the past decade and currently the only players association in India. It is a member of FIFPro with representation in FIFPro Asia board. The Association is of the players, by the players and for the players.

The primary objectives of the Association are:

• Safeguarding the interest of professional footballers playing in India.
• Negotiate minimum salary cap with the League organizers/ Federation.
• Collective bargaining on behalf of the national team.
• Represent the players on matters of contractual dispute and overdue payables.
• Educate players on post career transition.
• Organize seminars, workshops, courses for players to educate them about life after football.