Paris 2024: Did you know? This Indian state actually sponsors the Olympics bronze winning Indian hockey team and will do so until 2036. Recently, the Odisha government announced the extension of its sponsorship for Hockey India until 2036. The year that marks the centenary of the state’s formation in 1936. The Indian hockey team has made the whole nation proud after winning the bronze medal at Paris Summer Olympics, 2024.
The decision came after a Hockey India delegation met Odisha’s new Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the state guest house in Bhubaneswar. Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey expressed gratitude for the state government’s unwavering support.
He highlighted their discussions on advancing sports and enhancing the profile of Indian hockey. Tirkey acknowledged the government’s dedication and commitment to promoting the sport and thanked them for their continued backing.
“During the meeting, we discussed the advancement of sports and strategies to elevate our beloved sport to new heights. We are deeply thankful to government of Odisha for its steadfast support and commitment to Indian hockey.” Tirkey said.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh said the state government has consistently been a pillar of strength for the sport. “The decision to consider extending our partnership until 2036 underscores their dedication to sports and youth development,” he said.
In 2018, Odisha Mining Corporation Ltd (OMC), a state-run PSU, signed a five-year sponsorship agreement with Hockey India for the Indian Hockey Teams (Men/Women, Senior/Junior) covering the period from 2018 to 2023.
Following the teams’ success at the Tokyo Olympics, the state government extended the sponsorship for an additional 10 years, until 2033. OMC pledged to provide Hockey India with Rs 434 crore (excluding taxes) over this extended period.
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