Sports Flourished in Odisha

Bhubaneswar (Reporters Today Bureau): Once the recognisation of Odisha was Fanas Punji, Starvation and death of Kalahandi and the 1999 Super Cyclone. But Odisha is not all about starvation. Odisha’s Food Security Scheme exhibited in a outstanding way throughout the country. Odisha learned from the Super Cyclone which made Odisha a model of disaster management.

After food security and disaster management, Odisha is unique in the country and abroad has created an identity in the field of sports. Successful organization of Asian Athletics Championship, 2017 and Men’s World Cup Hockey in 2018 was remarkable. Odisha got second chance to organize the Men’s World Cup Hockey in 2023 which is glorious.

International level sports competition will be organized for which every facilities will be provided. Stadiums in both rural and urban areas are being constructed. Last state cabinet meeting passed to build multipurpose indoor stadiums in 89 urban areas. Construction of these stadiums are in warfooting  speed. Mini stadiums are being constructed in rural areas for the development of sports. Sports competitions are being organised by by Special Development Council in Tribal areas.

Kalinga Stadium got a new look now. 8 courts’ Badminton ground has been developed. International standard swimming pool has been prepared. Excellent football grounds in 5 places are there. 15,000 people can sit together and enjoy hockey in Kalinga Stadium. Similarly 20,000 spectators can watch hockey in the Rourkela stadium.

World Cup Hockey matches 2023 will be played in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela. Organizing of sports competitions will develop tourism in the state and also propagate the culture and history of Odisha.

Odisha’s Juggernaut in Kho-Kho game is being welcomed. Starting from the capital Bhubaneshwar to Tribal Areas of Sundargarh, talents of hockey is being identified. Ashtroturf hockey grounds have been  arranged at 17 blocks in Sundargarh.