Bhubaneswar: The 73rd All India Police Hockey Championship – 2025 was officially inaugurated today at the 7th Battalion ground in Bhubaneswar. Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania attended the event as the Chief Guest and received the salute during the grand parade. He advised all participants and sports officials to compete with a true sporting spirit.
On this occasion, DGP Khurania extended a warm welcome and best wishes to all participating teams, coaches, and sports officers. He expressed gratitude to the All India Police Sports Control Board for entrusting the responsibility of organizing this prestigious event to Odisha Police. He also thanked the State Government’s Department of Sports and Youth Services for their cooperation in hosting the championship.
The DGP expressed hope that the players would showcase their best sporting skills during the tournament. He highlighted the recent achievements of Odisha Police athletes in national competitions, including water sports, shooting, football, and hockey, where they won several medals and brought pride to the force. He expressed confidence that Odisha Police sportspersons would continue to bring further accolades in the future.
Referring to the district of Sundargarh, known as the cradle of Indian hockey, DGP Khurania acknowledged its rich tradition and contribution to the sport. He mentioned legendary players like Padma Shri Dilip Tirkey, Lazarus Barla, Prabodh Tirkey, Birendra Lakra, and Lilima Minz, who have represented both Odisha and India on international platforms, bringing glory to the nation.
The event began with an inaugural address by IG (Training) and Secretary of the organizing committee, Anup Kumar Sahoo. Additional Director General of Police (Headquarters) and Vice-Chairman of the organizing committee, Shri Dayal Gangwar, delivered the welcome address. Rajesh Kumar, Additional DGP (Armed) and Vice President of the committee, delivered the vote of thanks.
The championship is being held at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar from April 7 to April 15, 2025. The tournament is being conducted in a league-cum-knockout format. Teams from various state police forces and central armed police forces are participating. A total of 26 men’s teams and 9 women’s teams are competing in this championship.
DGP Khurania instructed all organizing members to ensure flawless arrangements in terms of hospitality, logistics, and match operations. He urged Odisha Police to uphold high standards of excellence while representing the pride of the state.
The opening ceremony was graced by retired police officers, senior police officials, team captains, and sportspersons from all participating teams.