Jharsuguda, Odisha — Jharsuguda is set to be developed as a Khelo India Centre for hockey, a significant milestone in the field of sports for the district.

Background The district has made remarkable progress in grassroots hockey over the past four years. Around 1,200 players from different age groups have been registered, while nearly 400 students from 38 schools are actively participating in the inter-district hockey tournament.

The proposal for the Khelo India Centre was pursued by Hockey Association of Odisha vice-president Jeeban Mohanty, who met R Vineel Krishna, Joint Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, government of India, on August 28 last year. During the meeting, he submitted the recommendation of the Jharsuguda Collector, highlighting the district’s growing contribution to hockey development. Vineel Krishna approved the establishment of the new centre in the district.

Community Impact This development is expected to significantly boost hockey in Jharsuguda and pave the way for nurturing future national-level players from the region. The district administration has played a proactive role in promoting sports infrastructure and nurturing talent. Six boys and girls from the district have represented Odisha in an inter-state school tournament, reflecting the rising standard of hockey in the region.

What Happens Next Encouraged by these efforts, Vineel Krishna has assured the establishment of sports hostels in Jharsuguda to further strengthen training facilities. Collector Kunal Motiram Chavan and Jeeban Mohanty expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, government of India, for recognising the district’s potential and extending support.

The establishment of the Khelo India Centre and sports hostels will provide a major boost to hockey in Jharsuguda, enabling young players to train and compete at a higher level. With the support of the district administration and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Jharsuguda is poised to become a hub for hockey talent in Odisha.