New Delhi: In its maiden attempt to support hockey at the national level, Odisha government has decided to be the sponsor of Indian hockey teams, both men and women.
At a function of Hockey India at New Delhi, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday announced to sponsor the Indian hockey teams for the next five years.
Patnaik announced this soon after unveiling the new jersey of the Indian Hockey teams at the function today.
The logo titled 'Odisha - India's Best Kept Secret' was also unveiled as Odisha has now partnered with Hockey India for the Hockey World Cup 2018.
As Odisha will be hosting the 14th edition of the prestigious Hockey World Cup in November in Bhubaneswar, the State partnering with Hockey India to support the Indian team has been welcomed by sports lovers.
“It is a historic step for us to support and sponsor Indian Hockey Teams- Men and Women for the next 5 years. This is Odisha's gift to the nation. Today, every Odia is proud that Team India will wear Odisha's logo,” said Patnaik.
Patnaik also said that hockey in Odisha is more than a sport and it is a way of life especially in the tribal regions, where children learn to walk with hockey sticks.
“Odisha has produced India’s finest hockey talents and the State’s association with the national hockey coincides with a golden period for the sport,” Patnaik added.