Bhubaneswar: MGM Group, under the leadership of its Chairman and noted Philanthropist Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, has extended a major sponsorship to Odisha’s rising golf sensation, Kashika Misra.
This strategic partnership provides a significant boost to the 18-year-old amateur golfer, who recently made history by becoming the first female from the state to be ranked India’s No. 1 amateur golfer.
The sponsorship from MGM Minerals Ltd. is a strong reflection of the company’s and Shri Mohanty’s commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting sports in the state.
In a statement, Ms.Misra expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the “unstinted support” from the company. She also thanked her coaches, parents, the Bhubaneswar and Delhi Golf Clubs, and the Government of Odisha, acknowledging their collective contributions to her success.
Ms.Misra’s remarkable ascent to the top spot in the national rankings came after a series of outstanding performances, including a runner-up finish at the prestigious IGU West Bengal Ladies and Junior Girls Golf Championship in May 2025. This achievement propelled her from the fourth to the first position, cementing her status as a top-tier talent.
Ms.Misra’s journey in golf has been nothing short of spectacular since she took up the sport just five years ago. Her rapid development was highlighted by her securing a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) in May 2023, a testament to her dedication and skill.
This new collaboration is set to provide Ms.Misra with the crucial resources needed as she prepares to represent India in future international events, including the prestigious Asia Pacific Golf Confederation championship in Hong Kong.
Having recently completed her Class XII, she is also set to pursue her academic and golfing career at a university in the United States.
The support for Kashika Misra aligns with MGM Group’s wider philanthropic vision led by Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty. Beyond golf, Shri Mohanty, who is also the President of the Odisha Cricket Association and Chairman of the MGM School of Sports, is a well-known patron of budding cricket talents.
The MGM Group has also supported other golf achievers from the state, such as Ankit Padhi, underscoring its broad commitment to promoting Odia talents in various fields, including art, culture, and sports, while championing Odia Pride (Asmita).
Shri Padhi clinched the prestigious “Best Gross Award” at the BGC’s flagship tournament and was felicitated at the club’s Annual General Meeting on 14 September.
This partnership between a prominent Industrial Group and one of the state’s most promising young athletes is expected to serve as a powerful inspiration for aspiring young golfers and encouraging them to pursue their passions and bring more laurels to the state.