Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the All India Kabaddi Tournament ‘Sambalpur Cup’ as the chief guest and motivated the participating players.
Describing Kabaddi as more than just a sport, the Chief Minister said it is a symbol of India’s rural culture that has now earned international recognition. He praised Sambalpur’s potential to become a major sports hub in Odisha.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister announced several key initiatives to develop world-class sports infrastructure in Sambalpur. He stated that the tender process has begun for the redevelopment of V.S.S. Stadium at a cost of ₹25 crore. Additionally, construction of a modern FIFA-standard football stadium at Mandalika Khela Padia is underway with an estimated cost of ₹15 crore.
Other major announcements include:
- Construction of a 100-bed sports hostel for young athletes.
- Development of a multi-purpose stadium.
- Establishment of block-level stadiums in all 9 blocks of Sambalpur district.
- Preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the upgradation of Burla and Hirakud Indoor Stadiums.
- Transformation of the Government Sports College at Kulundi into a premier sports centre for Western Odisha.
Recalling the journey of Kabaddi in the region — from traditional play on the sandy beds of the Mahanadi river to modern stadiums — the Chief Minister lauded Sambalpur’s emergence as a cradle of international athletes. He highlighted the achievements of Bhim Barad, gold medallist at the 2004 South Asian Games, and Priyanka Pradhan from Talapada, who won gold at the 2025 Asian Youth Games, calling their success an inspiration for the entire youth generation.
“Victory and defeat are two sides of the same coin,” the Chief Minister said, while appreciating the sportsman spirit shown by all participating teams. He extended heartfelt thanks to local MLA Shri Jay Narayan Mishra and the organisers for the successful conduct of the tournament.
The event was also attended by Panchayati Raj Minister Shri Ravi Narayan Naik, Sambalpur MLA Shri Jaynarayan Mishra, former Rengali MLA Shri Nauri Naik, Sambalpur District Collector Shri Siddheshwar Baliram Bandar, and other dignitaries.
