The Odisha government has announced an extension of its support to Hockey India (HI) till 2036 on Friday (June 21). The decision was taken after a high-level meeting which involved HI President Dilip Tirkey and HI Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh along with the newly-sworn-in Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi, Minister of State for Sports & Youth Services Suryabanshi Suraj, Chief Secretary & Chief Development Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Jena and Commissioner-Cum-Secretary R. Vineel Krishna.
While the outgoing Naveen Patnaik-led Government had extended the sponsorship of the men's and the women's national hockey team- both senior and junior-till 2033, the new extension decision will now see the state sponsor the teams till 2036, implying a further three-year extension.
Odisha To Celebrate Centenary Of Its Statehood In 2036
Meanwhile, it is worth highlighting that the year 2036 was chosen consciously as it coincides with the centenary of Odisha achieving statehood. Odisha and Hockey India (HI) have had a long association with the state first becoming the sponsor of the national hockey team in 2018.
READ HERE | Hockey India CEO Elena Norman Resigns Days After Women's Team's Coach Janneke Schopman's Exit
Odisha's backing has given a massive impetus to the development of the sport in the country. It wasn't a surprise that the state became the hub of the sport, with several national and international events including the World Cup being hosted by the state.
"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," Tirkey said as per an official release.
"With the help of the Odisha 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," Bhola Nath Singh said.