The Odisha Government, renowned for its active support of sports in India and its instrumental role in reviving the Indian hockey team through a successful partnership with Hockey India, has announced a three-year, INR 15 crore sponsorship for the Indian national Kho Kho team.
This significant investment, channelled through the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), commenced in January 2025 and runs until December 2027, with an annual contribution of INR 5 crore.
This generous support will empower the team by providing access to world-class training infrastructure and cutting-edge equipment. Additionally, the team will benefit from the guidance of top-tier coaches, physiotherapists, and sports scientists. This comprehensive support will facilitate participation in major international tournaments, enabling the team to gain valuable experience and compete at the highest level.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is a watershed moment for Kho Kho in India. By supporting our indigenous sports, we are not only preserving our cultural heritage but also creating new opportunities for our athletes. Just as we transformed Indian hockey, we envision a similar renaissance for Kho Kho, positioning Odisha as a catalyst for sporting excellence.”
Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) President, Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, lauded the government’s initiative, stating, “Odisha’s commitment to Kho Kho represents a turning point for this traditional sport. This sponsorship will significantly enhance our ability to develop world-class athletes and promote Kho Kho globally.”
This initiative by the Odisha government is a testament to its dedication to nurturing sporting talent and promoting traditional Indian sports globally.
This announcement comes on the heels of the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, set to take place in India from January 13 to 19, 2025. The tournament, featuring 24 teams from six continents, will showcase the fast-paced, seven-a-side format of Ultimate Kho Kho. The Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi will host the matches, with the Indian men’s and women’s teams facing off against their Pakistani counterparts in the opening matches on January 13 at 7:00 PM.