Odisha Govt announces Rs 5 lakh each for Indian Hockey Team

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday congratulated the Indian Men’s Hockey team for their historic Gold Medal at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and announced a cash award of Rs 5 lakh each for players and support staff of the victorious team.

The cash award was announced to recognize the Indian Men’s Hockey team’s stellar performance to win the coveted Gold and seal a berth for Paris Olympics 2024.

Amit Rohidas, the Odisha player in the Indian team, who also scored a goal in the 36th minute, interacted with the CM on virtual mode. Amit and his colleagues thanked the CM for supporting the Indian Hockey teams.

The Indian team convincingly defeated defending champions Japan 5-1 in the Final.

Mr Patnaik spoke to the Indian team over video call after the medal ceremony. The team was ecstatic to receive the personal congratulations from the Chief Minister, said a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

“My heartiest congratulations to the victorious Indian Men’s Hockey Team. Their unwavering dedication and hard work have once again proven that Hockey is truly India’s game, embodying our nation’s unyielding spirit. In Odisha, where Hockey holds a special place in our hearts, this historic day will forever be etched in our memories as a momentous triumph for our beloved sport and our nation. I wish the Indian Team the very best as they prepare for the Paris Olympic Games next year,” said the CM  in a congratulatory message.

India’s triumph ends a nine-year-long wait to finish on the top at the prestigious quadrennial event. In 2014, India had beaten nemesis Pakistan to win Gold.

Odisha is the official sponsor for the Indian hockey teams since 2018 and has been supporting the teams through major tournaments including two world cups.