Odisha has recently announced a landmark three-year

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Odisha has recently announced a landmark three-year sponsorship deal for the Indian National Kho Kho team, highlighting its continuous support for indigenous sports in India. This initiative marks a significant investment in traditional athletics, aimed at uplifting Kho Kho on the national and international stage. Sponsorship Duration and Value • The sponsorship will span from January 2025 to December 2027. • The Odisha government will contribute ₹5 crore per year for three consecutive years. • Thus, the total sponsorship amount is ₹15 crore.  Funding Source • The funding will be provided through the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), a state-owned enterprise. • This move strengthens the state’s commitment to channel corporate and government resources toward sports development. Objective of the Initiative • To elevate the status of Kho Kho as a nationally recognized sport. • To support the Indian National Kho Kho team with adequate financial backing for training, infrastructure, and exposure. • To encourage grassroots participation in traditional sports by boosting visibility and resources. Odisha’s Track Record in Sports • This sponsorship comes after Odisha’s highly successful partnership with Indian hockey, where the state played a crucial role in reviving the sport. • The current move reflects Odisha's long-term vision to nurture indigenous sports and expand India's sporting ecosystem.