Bhubaneswar: Odisha took a definitive step towards promoting indigenous sports by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Arcelor Mittal Nippon Steel (AM/NS India) to establish a High-Performance Centre dedicated to Kho Kho.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik lauded the initiative, emphasizing the state’s commitment to supporting traditional sports like Kho Kho. The collaboration with AMNS to set up the Kho Kho HPC marks a significant milestone in bolstering Indian sports, he said.
Among the array of High-Performance Centres established by Odisha at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, the Kho Kho High-Performance Centre is set to be a pivotal addition to the sporting ecosystem. This unique partnership model between the state and a corporate entity has yielded outstanding results in various sports, including Hockey, Football, Swimming, Athletics, Gymnastics, Sports Science, Shooting, Weightlifting, and now the indigenous sport of Kho Kho.
Notably, Odisha’s association with AMNS India in the Ultimate Kho Kho League led to the state-owned franchise, Odisha Juggernauts, clinching the championship title in the inaugural season. The collaboration has also extended to the establishment of the Gymnastics High-Performance Centre, resulting in gymnasts securing 8 medals, including 4 Gold and 4 Silver, at the 2023 National Games.