Bhubaneswar: In a historic move to bolster indigenous sports, the Odisha Government has announced a three-year sponsorship deal for the Indian National Kho Kho team. Starting January 2025 and running through December 2027, the state will invest ₹5 crore annually, totaling ₹15 crore, with funding provided by the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC).
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled the sponsorship, emphasizing Odisha’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage through sports. “This is a watershed moment for Kho Kho in India. By supporting our indigenous sports, we are not only preserving our cultural heritage but also creating new opportunities for our athletes,” said Majhi.
Highlighting Odisha’s past success with hockey, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about transforming Kho Kho’s landscape, envisioning a renaissance for the sport with Odisha at the forefront of this change.
The initiative was warmly welcomed by Sudhanshu Mittal, President of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI). “Odisha’s commitment to Kho Kho represents a turning point for this traditional sport. This sponsorship will significantly enhance our ability to develop world-class athletes and promote Kho Kho on the global stage,” he stated.
The sponsorship is set to provide comprehensive support, including team development, improved training infrastructure, and participation in national and international competitions. Officials also highlighted the branding opportunities for Odisha, which will gain visibility at major sporting events around the globe.
