Bhubaneswar: In a major push to strengthen grassroots sports infrastructure, the Odisha State Cabinet has approved the construction of Block Level Stadiums in all 314 blocks of the state. This ambitious initiative underscores the government’s commitment to promoting sports, health, and wellness while nurturing local talent across Odisha.
The project aims to bridge critical gaps in rural sports infrastructure, ensuring that aspiring athletes have access to modern facilities. With a budget allocation of ₹4,124 crore over five years, the initiative will be implemented in a phased manner. The stadiums will cater to core sports disciplines where Odisha has shown significant potential, helping to identify and train young athletes at the grassroots level.
Each stadium will be developed on 8-10 acres of land and will feature a football/cricket field, a clay athletic track with throw and jump areas, volleyball, kho kho, and kabaddi courts, an indoor hall for badminton and table tennis, and a common facility center. These multi-sport facilities will not only boost competitive sports but also encourage rural youth to engage in physical activities, fostering long-term mental and physical well-being.
Odisha has emerged as a key sports hub in India, hosting national and international tournaments in disciplines like hockey, athletics, and football. With this latest initiative, the state aims to further strengthen its sports ecosystem, ensuring that world-class infrastructure reaches even the most remote areas. The Block Level Stadiums will serve as platforms for young athletes to hone their skills and pursue careers in sports, reinforcing Odisha’s vision of becoming a leading sports destination in the country.
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