The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, JANUARY 3, 2025
In a significant move to promote the traditional sport of Kho Kho, the Odisha government has announced its sponsorship of the national Kho Kho team for the next three years. This initiative, which is set to run from January 2025 to December 2027, is a significant boost to the sport and is expected to create a lasting impact on the national and international sports scene.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi made this announcement, highlighting the state’s commitment to supporting indigenous sports. The sponsorship will see the Odisha government channel a total of Rs 15 crore into the Kho Kho team, with Rs 5 crore allocated each year. The funding will be provided by the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), which has been at the forefront of supporting sports and development initiatives in the state.
This move marks a major step in Odisha’s ongoing efforts to foster sports excellence. The state had previously sponsored the national hockey team and has now extended its patronage to Kho Kho, a sport that holds a special place in India’s cultural heritage. The sponsorship will not only help the national team scale new heights but also offer a platform for the players to shine globally.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with the Odisha government’s strategy to use sports as a tool to boost the state’s global image, with branding opportunities in both national and international tournaments. Through this sponsorship, Odisha aims to cement its reputation as a key player in the promotion of traditional Indian sports, while also nurturing the talent that will take Kho Kho to greater heights.
