Bhubaneswar: The State Government has pledged its continued support for Indian hockey, providing a major boost for the sport. The Government today decided to extend its support for both Indian Hockey teams for a period of another three years to 2036, the year when Odisha will complete 100 years of its formation.
This significant partnership was solidified in a high-level meeting attended by Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey and Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena and Sports Secretary R. Vineel Krishna.
It was decided in the meeting to extend the sponsorship until 2036. This landmark year holds special significance for Odisha as it marks the centenary of its establishment as an independent State in 1936, a momentous occasion that fills the people of Odisha with immense pride and joy.
Speaking about the meeting and their partnership with the State Government, Dr.Tirkey said, “We had a productive meeting with the Chief Minister and Sports & Youth Services Minister. We discussed the advancement of sports and strategies to elevate our beloved sport to new heights.”
“We are deeply thankful to the Government of Odisha for their steadfast support and commitment to Indian hockey. This partnership has played a pivotal role in uplifting the sport across our nation,” he added.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh said, “We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi and Sports & Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. The State Government’s support for Indian hockey has been invaluable. The Government of Odisha has consistently been a pillar of strength for our sport. Their decision to consider extending our partnership until 2036 underscores their dedication to sports and youth development.”
“With the help of the State Government, we are confident that Indian hockey will achieve unprecedented success. The year 2036 holds special significance for Odisha and for all of us at Hockey India and we will aim to make the year 2036 even more memorable for all of us,” Singh concluded.
Since 2018, Odisha has been a principal sponsor of Indian hockey, with the State’s former Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, playing a crucial role in the sport’s development during his tenure.
The extension of the sponsorship deal until 2036 is particularly symbolic for Odisha, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of its formation as a separate state.