The Government of Odisha aims to bring world-class sports infrastructure to every block of the state, stated Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Monday.
During a press conference at the Kalinga Stadium Tennis Center Auditorium, Minister Suraj provided detailed insights into the master plan for constructing these stadiums. He presented both the master plan and the stadium design through a presentation and a symbolic video.
The state government plans to construct stadiums in all 314 blocks of the state, with an estimated cost of ₹4,124 crore for these block-level facilities. Each stadium will be built on approximately 8 to 10 acres of land, significantly contributing to the development of sports infrastructure at the grassroots level and nurturing local sports talent. Minister Suraj emphasized that the aim is to provide the necessary infrastructure for sports at the block level and to develop talent in every village.
According to the proposed master plan, each block-level stadium will offer facilities for various sports, acting as a nursery for emerging talent. The stadiums will feature football and cricket grounds, an athletic track, areas for field events, volleyball courts, and more. Additionally, there will be specialized facilities for traditional sports such as Kho-Kho and Kabaddi. Indoor amenities will include badminton courts, table tennis facilities, gymnastics areas, and weightlifting rooms.
This apart, every stadium will have a common amenity center, and there will be a focus on the external development of the stadium, including essential facilities like water supply, drainage, and lighting. Various sports competitions will be organized to help identify talent from the grassroots level.
Minister Suryabanshi Suraj has reiterated the government’s commitment to the overall development of sports and athletes. He emphasized the importance of building a strong sports infrastructure at the grassroots level to ensure that athletes can achieve their dreams in the world of sports.
