odisha-pledges-15-cr-for-indian-kho-kho-team-sponsorship

The Odisha government has taken a remarkable step in promoting indigenous sports by announcing a three-year sponsorship for the Indian national kho kho team. The move aims to uplift the traditional sport and provide much-needed support to athletes and infrastructure development.

 

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared that the state will allocate ₹5 crore annually, amounting to a total investment of ₹15 crore from January 2025 to December 2027.

 

The funding will be provided by the Odisha Mining Corporation, underscoring the state’s continued commitment to fostering sports development in the country.

 

This initiative is seen as a pivotal moment for kho kho, a sport deeply rooted in India’s cultural heritage. The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of supporting indigenous sports, highlighting how such investments help preserve traditional games while opening new avenues for athletes.

 

Referring to Odisha’s success in revitalising Indian hockey through similar sponsorships, he expressed hope for a similar transformation in kho kho, positioning the state as a leader in promoting sporting excellence.

 

Sudhanshu Mittal, president of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), lauded the Odisha government for its proactive approach. He noted that the sponsorship would not only help in nurturing world-class athletes but also elevate the sport’s profile on global platforms.

 

Such support, he added, marks a significant turning point for kho kho, offering opportunities for growth and recognition.

 

The sponsorship is expected to strengthen the national team by providing advanced training facilities and enhancing participation in both domestic and international competitions.

 

Officials have stated that the partnership will also enable Odisha to showcase its brand on national and global sporting stages.

 

This move follows Odisha’s commendable role in supporting Indian hockey, which earned widespread recognition. By investing in kho kho, the state continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to sports development and cultural preservation.