In a new initiative, the Tribal Regional Welfare Minister of the Rajasthan government, declared that the state will soon be gifted with a new hockey academy for tribal children. Being the first facility of its kind in the territory, this upcoming hockey centre in Udaipur will cater to a number of chosen players from the tribal community.

As per reports, it is expected that the institute will be inaugurated on World Tribal Day, which falls on 9 August. Notably, reports state that the selection process which began in the middle of last week, will be continued till tomorrow.

All resources to be provided by the tribal department

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Reportedly, the launch of the selection process was marked by the esteemed presence of the chief coach and national-level umpire, Mohammed Hanif. Further, it is noteworthy that all resources at this centre will be provided by the Tribal Department. The final list of candidates will be chalked out after the ongoing trials are completed.

Love for hockey being reignited throughout the country

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History books are replete with stories about the introduction of hockey in India by British regiments and the quick popularity garnered by the sport, thereafter. It is claimed that the first hockey club of the country was set up in Calcutta in 1885-86. Led by the legendary player Dhyan Chand, the team from the country soon became successful in clinching multiple golds at the Olympics. During the early years after Indian Independence, Balbir Singh championed the sport for nearly a decade.

Now, cricket and football fever have sparked high, leaving little space for the lovers of hockey. In view of this, the Indian high authorities at the centre and state level are trying to revive the interest in the sport. Being a part of multiple initiatives undertaken in the country, the upcoming hockey institute in Rajasthan will serve a two-fold purpose. Besides attracting attention towards the national sport, the academy will also help in the upliftment of tribal communities.