Government of Odisha has allocated Rs 1,315 crore for sports and youth services for the financial year 2024-25. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a Rs 98 crore hike in the annual sports budget of the State from Rs 1,217 crore last year. This includes Rs 1,210 crore earmarked for the programme budget and Rs 105 crore under the establishment, operations and maintenance (EOM) budget.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ODISHA STATE SPORTS BUDGET 2024-25:

*     Government has proposed an outlay of Rs 952 crore for a new world-class stadium in Bhubaneswar, setting up world-class sports academies in four zones across the state, establishment of district-level sports academies, activation of mini stadia and for the development of sports at grassroots level.
*     The State Government has earmarked Rs 100 crore for the Yuva Shakti Yojana for the integrated development of the youth.
*     The Chief Minister has announced the Khela Ratna Khoja Abhiyaan to scout for promising young athletes at the grassroots level and nurture them for the future.
*     Government has allocated Rs 65 crore as assistance for outstanding sportspersons and for organizing various competitions in the current financial year.