For the first time, the AIFF introduced qualifiers for the I-League 2 in the 2022–23 season.[4] On 13 June 2023, the AIFF league committee announced introducing a new league below the I-League 2, where champions of State leagues and nominated clubs will play. State FAs have to nominate a team before July 31.[5] The AIFF wants to create a competitive pyramid with a concrete progression pathway, aimed to allow even the smallest of clubs to get promoted to the higher divisions.
Clubs
There are total 22 clubs competing in the I-League 3.