Jharsuguda: Jharsuguda has achieved a major milestone in the field of sports as it is set to be developed as a Khelo India Centre for hockey.
In a significant development, R Vineel Krishna, Joint Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, government of India, has approved the establishment of the new centre in the district.
The proposal was pursued by Hockey Association of Odisha vice-president Jeeban Mohanty, who had met Vineel Krishna on August 28 last year. During the meeting, he had submitted the recommendation of the Jharsuguda Collector, highlighting the district's growing contribution to the development of hockey.
Over the past four years, Jharsuguda has witnessed remarkable progress in grassroots hockey.
Around 1,200 players from different age groups have been registered, while nearly 400 students from 38 schools are actively participating in the inter-district hockey tournament. Hockey equipment has also been distributed to support budding players. Notably, six boys and girls from the district have represented Odisha in inter-state school tournament, reflecting the rising standard of hockey in the region.
The district administration has been playing a proactive role in promoting sports infrastructure and nurturing talent. Encouraged by these efforts, Vineel Krishna has also assured the establishment of sports hostels in Jharsuguda to further strengthen training facilities.
Collector Kunal Motiram Chavan and Jeeban Mohanty expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, government of India, for recognising the district's potential and extending support.
This development is expected to significantly boost hockey in Jharsuguda and pave the way for nurturing future national-level players from the region.