Following India’s historic campaign at the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, Odisha’s Minister for Sports & Youth Services, Suryabanshi Suraj, welcomed and felicitated star hockey players Amit Rohidas and Shilanand Lakra at the Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday.
The duo returned to Bhubaneswar after helping the Indian Men’s Hockey Team secure a Gold Medal and earn direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Hon’ble Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj extended heartfelt congratulations to the players on behalf of the state, celebrating their stellar efforts on the international stage. Interacting with the hockey icons, the Sports Minister highlighted that their dedication and achievement bring immense pride to Odisha and serve as a powerful inspiration for young athletes across the nation. He extended his best wishes for their upcoming tournaments and the road ahead to LA28.
The felicitation ceremony was attended by key dignitaries from the state’s sports department, including Ashok Kumar Panda, Special Secretary of Sports & Youth Services, and Bijaya Kumar Swain, Additional Secretary. Representatives from the Hockey Association of Odisha and other departmental officials were also present to honor the returning champions.
Odisha continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing and supporting world-class hockey talent in India, with state-of-the-art facilities at Kalinga Stadium serving as a primary hub for national training and development.
