The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
JODA/BARBIL, FEBRUARY 3, 2025
Athletes from Jindal Sports Hostel have brought immense pride to Odisha with their stellar performances at the 38th National Games, held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, from January 28 to February 1, 2025. Bablu Munda clinched the gold medal in the 48 kg men’s Wushu category, while Manju Munda secured silver in the 45 kg women’s category, marking a significant achievement for the state’s sporting community.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi lauded the athletes’ accomplishments on social media, describing their victories as a proud moment for the state. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Sports Minister Suryavanshi Suraj also extended their heartfelt congratulations. The Sports Minister emphasized that such victories will further strengthen Odisha’s growing sports culture and inspire budding athletes.
Shalu Jindal, Chairperson of the Jindal Foundation, commended the athletes for their hard work and dedication, saying, “This achievement is a testament to their perseverance and the world-class training they receive. Jindal Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing rural and tribal talents.”
Jindal Sports Hostel, run by the Jindal Foundation — the social arm of Jindal Steel and Power, led by Naveen Jindal — offers top-class sports and educational facilities under the CBSE curriculum to 60 underprivileged yet talented athletes from the tribal-dominated Barbil region. The hostel is equipped with modern sports infrastructure, including comfortable accommodations, advanced sports equipment, a fourth-generation gym, and a dedicated training facility led by experienced coaches. Additionally, the Foundation ensures that students receive comprehensive support in food, nutrition, and physical fitness training, creating a well-rounded development ecosystem.
In collaboration with the Odisha State Wushu Association, the Jindal Foundation has played a pivotal role in promoting Wushu and Kickboxing in Keonjhar. Several athletes trained at the Jindal Sports Hostel have earned accolades on international platforms, competing successfully in countries such as Russia, China, Indonesia, and Brunei. By fostering sports such as Wushu, Kickboxing, Hockey, Cricket, Football, and Archery, the Jindal Foundation has positively impacted over 30,000 rural and tribal athletes, furthering Odisha’s reputation as a powerhouse of emerging sports talent.
