Jharsuguda has achieved a significant milestone in sports as it prepares to be developed into a Khelo India Centre for hockey. 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 advocated by Jeeban Mohanty, vice-president of the Hockey Association of Odisha, who met with Vineel Krishna on August 28 last year. During this meeting, he submitted the recommendation from the Jharsuguda Collector, emphasizing the district’s increasing contribution to hockey development.
In the past four years, Jharsuguda has shown remarkable progress in grassroots hockey. Approximately 1,200 players from various age groups have been registered, and nearly 400 students from 38 schools are actively participating in inter-district hockey tournaments. Additionally, hockey equipment has been distributed to support emerging players. Notably, six boys and girls from the district have represented Odisha in inter-state school tournaments, showcasing the rising standards of hockey in the area.
The district administration has taken proactive steps to promote sports infrastructure and develop talent. Encouraged by these initiatives, Vineel Krishna has also promised the establishment of sports hostels in Jharsuguda to further enhance training facilities.
Collector Kunal Motiram Chavan and Jeeban Mohanty expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, for recognizing the district’s potential and providing support.
This development is anticipated to significantly enhance hockey in Jharsuguda and create opportunities for nurturing future national-level players from the region.
