Jharsuguda has reached a significant milestone in sports as it prepares to develop a Khelo India Centre for hockey. The establishment of this new centre in the district has been approved by R Vineel Krishna, Joint Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

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 their meeting, he presented the recommendation from the Jharsuguda Collector, emphasizing the district’s increasing contributions to hockey development.

In the past four years, Jharsuguda has made notable strides in grassroots hockey, with around 1,200 players registered across various age groups. Nearly 400 students from 38 schools are actively involved in the inter-district hockey tournament, and hockey equipment has been distributed to support emerging players. Remarkably, six boys and girls from the district have represented Odisha in the inter-state school tournament, showcasing the rising standard of hockey in the area.

The district administration has been proactive in enhancing sports infrastructure and fostering talent. In light of these efforts, Vineel Krishna has also promised the establishment of sports hostels in Jharsuguda to further improve 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 initiative is anticipated to significantly enhance hockey in Jharsuguda and create pathways for developing future national-level players from the region.