Even as Sundargarh is known as the fort of hockey in the country, the game is yet to develop in other districts of Odisha, pointed out speakers at a seminar held in Sundargarh on the occasion of the World Sports Journalists’ Day on Monday.
The seminar titled, “Development of Hockey in Rural Area” was organised by the Sports Journalists Association, Odisha.
Speakers said though efforts have been made by Government and private organisations for development of hockey in Sundargarh district, yet no such attempts made in other districts.
Efforts should be made at all levels to promote hockey in all districts, they said.
They opined that sports journalists can play a vital role by writing on hockey and performances of players in newspapers.
It may be noted that Sundargarh has given 60 international players (both men and women) to the country and many of them are Padmashri and Arjun awardees.
They also said if the Government begins a drive with hockey talents in different districts and provide facilities; the State would be treated as the paradise of hockey.
Among others, Panposh ITDA PA Tuku Barik, RSP DGM (PR) Ramendra Kumar, Olympians lajrus Barla, international players Subhadra Pradhan, Punam Toppo, Rojalin Dungdung and coach Amulyananda Bihari were present.