Odisha Unveils Ambitious Roadmap for Sports Infrastructure and Global Events

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has laid out an extensive roadmap for sports development focusing on infrastructure expansion, talent identification, and hosting major international events, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said on Sunday.

Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day first ‘Chintan Shivir’ organised by the Sports & Youth Services Department, the Chief Minister said sports go beyond medals and victories, playing a crucial role in instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience in life.

He said the discussions at the event would help shape a structured framework for the future of sports in the state. The event brought together national and international sports experts, administrators, and scholars to deliberate on strengthening Odisha’s sports ecosystem.

Majhi highlighted that Odisha has already emerged as a prominent destination for national and international sporting events and has gained global recognition in the sector. He added that the state is preparing to host the World Athletics Championships and the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in 2028.

He further noted that following the successful hosting of the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze event last year, Odisha will host the Silver-level competition this year.

The Chief Minister also announced the development of a multi-purpose sports complex at Gothapatna with an investment of around ₹1,000 crore. In addition, he said a large-scale initiative is underway to strengthen grassroots sports infrastructure, including the construction of modern multi-purpose stadiums at the block level with an investment exceeding ₹4,000 crore.

Emphasising youth development, Majhi said talented sportspersons from rural areas are being identified and trained through initiatives such as the ‘Chief Minister’s Trophy’. He summed up the vision with the phrase, “Happy coaches, happy athletes and happy achievers.”

He said sports will play a key role in achieving the vision of Samruddha Odisha by 2036 and Viksit Bharat by 2047, adding that Odisha is steadily positioning itself not only as a host of major sporting events but also as a producer of world-class athletes.

Sports & Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said that while discussions are being held in a controlled environment, real success will depend on implementation in field conditions, stressing the importance of effective execution.

Padma Shri awardee and Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, Commissioner-cum-Secretary Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Sports Director Yeddula Vijay, along with senior officials, sports experts, and administrators, were present at the event.

Additional Secretary Bijaya Kumar Swain delivered the vote of thanks.