Odisha Cabinet Approves Rs 4,124 Crore for Block-Level Stadiums

Bhubaneswar, Feb 8 : The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved an outlay of Rs 4,124 crore for the construction of block-level stadiums across 314 blocks in the state over the next five years. The initiative aims to bolster grassroots sports infrastructure and foster a dynamic sports ecosystem in Odisha.

Announcing the decision, Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting health, wellness, and athletic excellence. He stated that the project seeks to bridge the long-standing gaps in rural sports infrastructure, particularly at the block level, where sports facilities remain underdeveloped.

Strengthening Grassroots Sports

The newly approved initiative will focus on nurturing local talent by providing enhanced opportunities for athletes and organizing more grassroots sports competitions. The project will prioritize core sports disciplines where Odisha has demonstrated significant potential.

Beyond competitive sports, these stadiums will serve as hubs for physical activity, encouraging rural youth to participate in sports, thereby promoting their physical and mental well-being.

Key Features of the Project

Each block-level stadium will be developed on 8–10 acres of land and will include essential facilities such as:

• A football/cricket field
• A clay athletic track with designated throw and jump areas
• Courts for volleyball, kho kho, and kabaddi
• An indoor hall for badminton and table tennis
• A common facility center

The project aligns with Odisha’s vision of becoming a leading sports hub in India. By investing in state-of-the-art sports infrastructure at the grassroots level, the government aims to create a robust talent pipeline and inspire citizens to integrate sports into their daily lives.

With this significant investment, Odisha reaffirms its commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture while empowering young athletes to achieve excellence on national and international platforms.