Former Union Minister Dilip Ray profoundly praised Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for his contribution for the development of Indian Hockey while inaugurating a rural hockey tournament at the Sector-19 Bethany ground here organised by the Sagarika Welfare Trust.
Ray said the hockey players are bringing glory for the country. Sundargarh is the cradle of hockey. With support and inspiration of Naveen Patnaik, many players from this district would get berth in Indian Hockey team. He lauded the organisers of the tournament and said for the growth of local talents such tournaments are essential. On the occasion, eight players and their coach were felicitated for bringing glory in national and international levels. Sagarika Welfare Trust Chairman Harihar Routray lauded Naveen Patnaik for construction of a world-class hockey stadium and hosting the World Cup Hockey at Rourkela.