Odisha inaugurates Khelo India Centers in every district

Bhubaneswar, April 20: In a significant step towards strengthening grassroots sports infrastructure, Khelo India Centers have been inaugurated across all districts of Odisha under the joint support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and the State Sports and Youth Services Department. The initiative, launched under the guidance of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, aims to develop world-class sports infrastructure and nurture young talent across the state.

These centers are designed to provide athletes with access to quality training and modern facilities for a range of sports, including football, volleyball, hockey, athletics, kho-kho, kabaddi, and more. All essential amenities required for athletes' development will be made available.

To ensure efficient operation and management, each center will receive an annual grant of Rs. 5 lakh from the government.

Marking the occasion, Odisha Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj told the reporters, "In every district of Odisha, Khelo India Centers have been established. Starting today, the Kalinga Super Cup -- one of the elite football tournaments in the country will be held at the iconic Kalinga Stadium, creating a vibrant atmosphere for football lovers across the region."

The stage is set for the fifth edition of the Kalinga Super Cup, kicking off on Sunday in Bhubaneswar. Since its inception in 2018, the tournament has grown into India's premier domestic knockout football competition. This year's edition carries added significance, with a coveted spot in the AFC Champions League 2 Preliminary Round on the line, according to the official website of ISL.

So far, ISL sides have dominated the tournament, with Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Odisha FC, and East Bengal FC lifting the trophy. Notably, the Blues, the Red and Gold Brigade, and the Kalinga Warriors are the only clubs to have reached the final more than once.

Reader Comments

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Priya M.

This is fantastic news for Odisha's youth! 👏 Having proper training facilities in every district will help discover so much hidden talent. Can't wait to see future champions emerge from these centers!

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Rahul K.

While I appreciate the initiative, I hope they maintain these facilities properly. Many government sports centers become neglected after a few years. The ₹5 lakh grant sounds good but will it be enough?

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Sunita P.

As a kho-kho coach, I'm thrilled to see traditional sports getting recognition alongside football and hockey. This inclusive approach is what makes Odisha's sports policy stand out! #ProudOdisha

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Amit S.

The timing with Kalinga Super Cup is perfect! Great way to inspire young athletes when football fever is high. Hope they organize district-level tournaments soon to keep the momentum going.

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Nisha R.

My brother in Koraput has been training on a muddy field for years. Just called him about this news and he's over the moon! Thank you for thinking about athletes in smaller towns too.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.