Bhubaneswar: Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Odisha has emerged as a beacon of progress, making significant strides in sectors such as energy, women empowerment, and healthcare. However, it is in the realm of sports that the state truly stands out, leading a revolution that has positioned it as the sports capital of India.
Over the years, Odisha, guided by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has played host to marquee international events, developed high-performance centers, and established world-class sports infrastructure. A testament to this commitment is the state’s latest initiative, Nua-O, launched in November 2023, which has added a new dimension to Odisha’s sports landscape.
Nua-O, a unique initiative aimed at empowering and engaging the state’s youth, has witnessed remarkable success. With sports at its core, the program spans six disciplines—hockey, cricket, kho kho, and volleyball—featuring participation from over 55,000 teams. The enthusiastic response from both boys and girls across all four tiers—institution, block, district, and state—has been a highlight of the initiative.
More than just an incentive-driven program, Nua-O provides the youth with a prestigious platform to express themselves and showcase their talents. For many young athletes, playing at iconic venues like the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, a site where global hockey stars have left their mark, is a dream come true.
Similarly, for kho kho players competing in Puri, recognized as the hub of kho kho in the state, it marks a significant milestone in their budding sporting journey. The Biju Patnaik Indoor Stadium at KIIT, Bhubaneswar, which has hosted national-level volleyball competitions, welcomed talented players with warmth and aplomb, contributing to the holistic development of sports in the state.
The Nua-O Sports program not only incentivizes youth participation but also awards cash prizes to the deserving winners. This encouragement is pivotal for students, offering them recognition comparable to that bestowed by the state government on athletes who excel at national and international events.
As these young minds are at an impressionable age, engaging them in positive sports activities plays a crucial role in teaching values such as teamwork, accountability, camaraderie, and, most importantly, a sense of belonging to the global sports community. Odisha, through initiatives like Nua-O, continues to redefine its image on the global stage, instilling a sense of pride and identity among its youth.