Bhubaneswar: Determined to inculcate a sports culture in the state, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government wants to create an inclusive platform that would not only celebrate sports innovation and entrepreneurship; but also involve sportspersons, sports startups, high-performance centres and students in a significant way.
India’s first-ever two-day sports and innovation fest, SPORT IT 2020, concluded at the Kalinga Stadium here city today.
The fest was organised by Xavier Emlyon Business School (XEBS) in collaboration with the Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha.
Addressing the event, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, “I appreciate the unique venture of the Xavier Emlyon Business School, Bhubaneswar and the Sports & Youth Services Department in hosting SPORT-I.T 2020, India’s first-ever sports and innovation festival here in Bhubaneswar.”
The Odisha CM said, ” It will encourage the participants from the Sports fraternity to meet, exchange knowledge, and learn from one another.”
“I am glad to see so many sports entrepreneurs, investors and students from across India and foreign nations are taking part in this event. I welcome all to Bhubaneswar and wish them a great stay here. It’s a matter of happiness that Odisha has been conferred with Sports-Star Ace Award for the consecutive second year as the Best State for Sports Promotion in the entire country,” he further stated.
This reflects the commitment of Odisha Government for the development of sport. I am sure the festival will enhance the outcome of our efforts to bring innovation to sports and promote a sporting culture among the youth, the Odisha CM concluded.