In a recent development, the state government of Odisha has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Arcelor Mittal-Nippon Steel (AMNS) India to set up a High Performance Centre (HPC) for gymnastics in the state capital Bhubaneswar. In addition to that, academies will be created in Puri, Jeypore, and Rourkela.
The objective of this partnership is to promote and develop the sport of gymnastics to the highest levels. To make sure of that, the government will create and maintains the necessary infrastructure for the HPCs, whilst AMNS India will take care of the operations, management, and training of gymnasts, giving them international and national exposure and focus on women gymnastics in particular. The programme will also work to develop a team of certified coaches and judges.
The state government has taken the development of sports seriously and all the efforts taken were evidently seen after Odisha Juggernauts, the team sponsored by AMNS India, emerged as champions in the Ultimate Kho Kho League.
Speaking at the event, Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Odisha, said “Gymnastics as an Olympic sport is evolving and has always had mass appeal. Odisha has a pool of talent who under expert guidance and a holistic support system can be nurtured to become international gymnasts over the next five years. I am delighted to see our state and AMNS India come together yet again, this time to promote gymnastics. This partnership will go a long way in creating a vibrant gymnastics ecosystem in the country and help us identify and develop young talent for the future.”
The AMNS India is a joint venture between ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel Corporation. It is a global leader in the automotive and construction segments and has made tremendous advances in India’s steel industry. The joint venture set up a steel facility in India in 2010 and since then, AMNS India has made significant progress in terms of technology, investment, and human resources.
Also present during the signing ceremony was Vineel Krishna, Sports Secretary of the state government. He is responsible for developing and overseeing the state’s sports infrastructure and policy. He works with the local government, state government, and national government to ensure competitive sports in the country.
